“SOAR Program For New Nurses Improves Patient Care”

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - Oct. 23, 2013 - PRLog -- Havana, IL  –  Recent college graduates face many challenges when transitioning to their first job.  In the rural healthcare setting, having a successful progression from the academic to the working world for recent graduates is not only important, it is absolutely critical to quality patient care and retention of dedicated and talented nurses.

Rylan Huff, R.N. at Mason District Hospital, has benefitted directly from an innovative program at the hospital – “SOAR-RN” (Supporting Onboarding and Retention of Rural Nurses). This federally funded program is changing how new nurses are transitioned into rural healthcare environments. According to the Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network, SOAR-RN seeks to:

·       Enhance competency and skill of newly licensed rural nurses

·       Promote nurse retention and job satisfaction

·       Improve the medical practice environment

“The SOAR program not only builds on the knowledge gained in nursing school, but also helps ease the transition for new nurses going into the working world. What I liked most about SOAR was the hands-on experience and support network that it gave me.” explained Huff.

Huff received his Bachelor of Nursing Degree from OSF St. Francis College of Nursing in Peoria, Illinois, and was admitted to Mason District’s SOAR program for the year-long residency.

“We see a definite improvement in the confidence level of new nurses when they participate in the SOAR-RN program. It’s very customized to meet the specific needs of new rural nurses, and also provides a broad base of support for educators and mentors. It only strengthens our ability to provide a superior level of care for our patients.” shared Carman Wuebbels, Chief Nursing Officer at Mason District Hospital.

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Mason District Hospital is a rural critical access hospital serving Mason and southern Fulton Counties since 1957. The hospital includes full service emergency room, physician clinics in Havana and Mason City, specialty clinics, high-tech diagnostics, and rehabilitation services. Visit www.MasonDistrictHospital.org for more information.