TERN Residency Program: transitioning the experienced registered nurse.

One pediatric hospital addressed the challenges of registered nurses (RNs) transitioning to new roles by developing a year-long residency for experienced RNs, whether newly hired or transitioning to another role within the hospital. The evidence-based program's goal is for the participant to demonstrate effective decision-making skills, applying principles into his or her practice at the point of care. Objectives of the program are measured using pre/post tool and through the use of reflective journaling. The article provides a framework to develop an experienced RN residency program that supports transition from competent to proficient in a new work environment.