Helping Nurses Become Leaders

Nurses at Martha Jefferson are striving to fulfill our vision of becoming leaders in the nursing profession.  This diverse group is united by a passion for providing personalized medical care, and we pursue excellence in every facet of our work.

Every nurse is considered to have the potential to be a leader, supported by a culture where contributions of knowledge, expertise and leadership are encouraged and rewarded.  Becoming leaders in professional nursing means that we are committed to continual improvement, examining our own shortcomings as individuals and as a team.

New graduate retention is a significant concern, both at the local level and nationwide.  In regions across the country, between 35 to 60 percent of nurses change jobs within their first year of employment. 

High rates of new graduate turnover create challenges in the day-to-day management of care, and it also can present staggering financial implications.  Studies show that the cost of hiring and the orientation process for each new nurse can exceed $40,000. 

At Martha Jefferson Hospital, we strive to ensure that new graduates who join our team fully understand our Mission, Vision and Philosophy.  Our vision statement is clear: Within our Caring Tradition, the nurses of Martha Jefferson will become leaders in professional nursing practice.  We seek nurses who are prepared, and committed, to continue learning and growing long after commencement.

Martha Jefferson is committed to retaining our nursing talent.  During the past three years, 12-month turnover rates of new graduates has fallen sharply from 35 percent in 2005 to just 16 percent in 2006, and continues to decline.

Learn more today about how you can support nursing leadership.

Scholarships and other funds contributed in support of nursing at Martha Jefferson Hospital help our nurses in a variety of ways-creating new opportunities to advance clinical training and academic education, support mentoring experiences, and fund innovative programs to enhance the ability to care for more acutely ill patients and keep pace with advances in diagnostics and healthcare.

Community philanthropy helps Martha Jefferson Hospital support a culture and professional environment that attracts and retains the best nurses in our region and fosters leadership at every level.