Anticipating the need for additional nurses throughout the Treasure Coast, Martin Health System has partnered with Indian River State College (IRSC) for expansion and enhancement of the college’s nursing program.
Due to the current expansion of Tradition Medical Center, one of Martin Health’s three hospitals, the organization will require 200 additional nurses to be hired by 2018. To meet this challenge, Martin Health has made a financial commitment to IRSC of $750,000 to hire additional nursing faculty and enroll 80 additional students who are pursuing an associate degree in nursing.
As part of this collaboration between Martin Health and IRSC, the Clinical Education Department at Martin Health has created an Advanced Learning for the Student Nurse (ALSN) program. This program allows students to receive additional education and training while enrolled in the nursing program at IRSC. The program consists of three components: specified clinical rotations and practicum experiences at Martin Health, and educational offerings and a assigned mentor from Martin Health.
The educational offerings will reinforce subjects the students are learning in their nursing program while infusing “current practice” scenarios. The ALSN participants will also have the opportunity to test their skills in a new high-fidelity Simulation Center opening in May 2016. Immersion of a student into simulation scenarios bridges the gap between theory and practice and allows the student to learn without jeopardizing patient safety. The goal of both the didactic and simulation learning is to prepare students in advance for independent work when transitioning from student nurse to licensed registered nurse working in the acute-care setting and to escalate competencies prior to licensure exam.
“IRSC has long been a valued partner with Martin Health System in developing a skilled workforce that provides exceptional patient care,” said Robert L. Lord, Jr., Martin Health Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “This collaboration will also have a beneficial impact on our local economy, with a significant number of new jobs being created for Treasure Coast residents.”
“We are very thankful for the collaborative relationship with Martin Health System,” said Dr. Edwin R. Massey, IRSC President. “Their support opens up opportunities for a rewarding nursing career on the Treasure Coast, providing far-reaching benefits for the economy and the delivery of health care in our region.”
