Press Release
For
Immediate Release
CCNE Adopts Procedures for Accrediting Post-Baccalaureate
Nurse Residency Programs
Washington, DC, May 1, 2009 – The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) has adopted the procedures it will follow in the accreditation of post-baccalaureate nurse residency programs. Throughout the development of these procedures, CCNE sought comment and input from its community of interest, including nurse residency programs. An autonomous arm of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), CCNE recently announced the launch of these accreditation activities. At its April 23-25 meeting, the CCNE Board of Commissioners approved the Procedures for Accreditation of Post-Baccalaureate Nurse Residency Programs. Adoption of the Procedures enables CCNE to begin the immediate review of applicants for accreditation.
The procedures described in this publication have been established by CCNE to assist institutions whose post-baccalaureate nurse residency programs are preparing for accreditation and to guide the CCNE Board and its committees in the accreditation decision-making process. Subjects covered include, but are not limited to, steps to be followed by the program in pursuit of accreditation; monitoring of program performance; provisions for the review of adverse actions; and assurance of confidentiality throughout the review process.
“Post-baccalaureate nurse residency programs provide a smooth transition to the work place for novice nurses. CCNE accreditation will serve as an indicator that hospitals are committed to the continued development of professional nursing,” stated CCNE Board chair Dr. Harriet R. Feldman. “This is vitally important as our nation’s healthcare system struggles to attract and retain nurses.” Bridging baccalaureate education and professional nursing practice, nurse residency programs support residents in developing effective decision-making skills, strategies to incorporate research-based evidence, and clinical leadership skills.
Post-baccalaureate nurse residency programs interested in applying for CCNE accreditation should contact CCNE Assistant Director Benjamin Murray at bmurray@aacn.nche.edu or 202-887-6791, extension 275. The Procedures may be accessed by visiting the CCNE Web site at http://www.aacn.nche.edu/Accreditation.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education is an autonomous accrediting agency contributing to the improvement of the public's health. CCNE ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate and graduate degree nursing education programs and post-baccalaureate nurse residency programs. As a voluntary, self-regulatory process, CCNE accreditation supports and encourages continuing self-assessment by nursing programs and supports continuing growth and improvement of collegiate professional education and post-baccalaureate nurse residency programs.
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CONTACT: Benjamin Murray
202-887-6791, extension 275
bmurray@aacn.nche.edu
