Nurse Residency Spring 2027- Operating Room Track

ChristianaCare is a leading health system renowned for its commitment to quality patient care, innovation, and comprehensive nursing education and training. Located in Newark, Delaware, ChristianaCare serves a diverse community with advanced healthcare services through its hospitals, outpatient centers, and specialty programs. As an organization, it prides itself on fostering professional growth and offering a supportive environment for nurses transitioning into their careers. The ChristianaCare Nurse Residency Program holds the distinguished accreditation as a Practice Transition Program by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation in Practice Transition Programs. This accreditation recognizes the program's excellence in preparing new nurses to thrive in clinical practice and deliver safe, competent care.

The Operating Room Nurse Residency Program at ChristianaCare is designed specifically for senior nursing students, recent nurse graduates, and newly licensed registered nurses eager to specialize in perioperative nursing. Accepting applications from students graduating by December 2026 or sooner, the program offers a unique opportunity to join an immersive and structured residency starting in Spring 2027. The Residency Program spans 26 weeks and integrates classroom lectures, simulation education, and preceptor-led clinical experiences in the operating rooms at Christiana and Wilmington Hospitals. Residents benefit from mentorship by experienced perioperative nurses who guide their clinical learning and skill competency development throughout the program.

This Nursing Residency not only emphasizes surgical care principles and patient-centered practice but also incorporates peer support and ongoing professional development. It fosters essential competencies including critical thinking, evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary communication, and quality and safety in patient care. Beyond the initial 26-week residency, the program continues to support nurses with residency meetings extending through months eight, ten, and twelve to ensure sustained growth and integration into the professional community at ChristianaCare.

The position requires candidates to be eligible for licensure as Registered Nurses in Delaware or possess a compact RN license, underscoring the importance of licensing processes aligned with the employment start date. Hired residents enter into a commitment agreement requiring two years of service with ChristianaCare, including at least fifteen months on the unit of hire, reflecting the organization's investment in a qualified and dedicated nursing workforce.

The position is compensated at a flat rate of $38.61 per hour, supplemented by applicable shift differentials, demonstrating a competitive salary package reflective of qualifications and experience. To apply, interested candidates must submit a cover letter directed to Karen Brady expressing their interest in the Operating Room Nurse Residency, along with a resume, unofficial transcript, and prepare clinical recommendations upon further notice. The application process includes video interviews and clinical reference checks, with key deadlines for submission and candidate selection in the summer and early fall of 2026.

ChristianaCare strongly encourages applicants to initiate the Delaware RN licensing process promptly due to the typical six to eight-week timeframe required for background checks and fingerprinting. As an equal opportunity employer, ChristianaCare values diversity and inclusion and makes all employment decisions free from discrimination based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected characteristics. Joining ChristianaCare’s Operating Room Nurse Residency Program means becoming part of a compassionate, skilled team dedicated to advancing surgical nursing care and improving patient outcomes.