June 13th, 2008
GREAT Program Enhances Local Nursing Career Opportunities

In an effort to make the transition from nursing school to residency as smooth as possible, and help more local nursing school graduates stay in Central Texas, CTMC recently created the Graduate Residency Education and Training (GREAT) program.

The 13-week GREAT program includes orientation to the nurses’ specialty unit as well as weekly courses that are presented in areas such as physical assessment, pathophysiology and “off the unit” sessions like following a patient to the operating room.

“I think the GREAT program is going to be very popular with our new nurses,” said Lana Cameron, Administrative Director of Patient Care Services. “It’s just another step in making CTMC a friendly and quality health care provider.”

The first session, which began in May, is helping new nurses bridge the gap between nursing school and entry into the work setting. Future sessions will be held in conjunction with schools of nursing graduation dates in May and December. The Friday courses are open to any staff that wishes to attend. The dates will be posted on the CTMC website and registration can be completed by calling the Education Department at 512-753-3554 or online at www.ctmc.org click on “Education and Events.”

For more information, please contact Lana Cameron at 512-753-3609.

By CLAY DESTEFANO