Purpose for the program: To describe an innovative new orientation program that was begun in 2011 with RNs' from St. Elizabeth Healthcare(SEH) and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Newborn Intensvie Care Unit (CCHMC). 

Proposed change: The overall aim is to increase knowledge, confidence and skills for RNs' at SEH who are preparing to transition from a Level II to Level III NICU. The proposed unit would provide ventilation and other services to babies born between 28 and 32 weeks.

Implementation, outcomes and evaluation: The program was developed by Nursing Leadership from SEH and CCHMC. The training program is a combination of learning experiences, on-line and classroom education along with clinical time in the Level III Newborn Intensive Care  Unit (NICU). During the 160 hours of hands-on training in the NICU the RNs' are under the direct supervision of a preceptor who is a clinically advanced RN. Weekly meetings took place with the CCHMC Level III NICU Educator to discuss and individualize learning experiences for each RN, including observations with Respiratory Therapy, Unit Charge Nurse, Speech Pathology, and the PICC (Periperhally inserted central catheters) team. Unique to this experience was the addition of the Newborn Indvidualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP). Theory, principles and techniques introduced at CCHMC were then reinfroced with programs at SEH. A final evaluation of the program will occur with a Simulation Day that is planned for November 2011 to safely practice interaction and clinical skills without compromising the safety of "real' NICU babies.

Implications for nursing practice: Exemplary demonstration of two healthcare facilities working together to implement best practice via a cooperative educational agreement. SEH and CCHMC are both Magnet hosptials who continually focus on the importance of collaboration, innovation, and the enhancement of professional growth and development of nurses.

Keywords: Orientation, Level III NICU, nursing education, transition, simulation