FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug 20, 2014
Training & Development Plays a Key Role in Succession Planning for Nurse Leaders
LOUISVILLE, Ky.— As healthcare organizations prepare for the retirement of nearly one-third of RNs
over the next decade, a new training series aims to equip first-level nurse leaders with the tools they need
to succeed. NCharge®, a program developed by Catalyst Learning Company (CLC), focuses on the ability
of the charge nurse to improve profitability, motivate and lead.
According to a report from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the “retirement of
large numbers of RNs over the next two decades means a loss of experiential knowledge and leadership
brought to the workforce by seasoned RNs.” While the number of RNs younger than 30 has significantly
increased, healthcare organizations face the challenge of developing succession plans that transition
business and leadership skills among nursing units. Many healthcare groups are also finding that
succession planning for nurse executives is critical to improving engagement and lowering turnover rates.
“Succession planning for nurse executives is even more critical today as healthcare organizations face
new challenges,” said Lynn Fischer, president of CLC. “Nurses wear many hats and must possess a
diverse skill set. At the same time, their responsibilities are increasing and there are increased demands
for efficiency.”
NCharge is a series of courses designed to increase the skill and effectiveness of first-level supervisory
nurses in acute care facilities. The program’s training principles focus on the ability of charge nurses to
improve profitability, increase nurse engagement and retention, and improve patient care and outcomes.
“If equipped with proper training early on in their career, nurses will be more engaged and experience
more long-term success,” said Fischer. “The return for the healthcare employer is lower turnover, better
financial results and improved patient care.”
The NCharge curriculum was developed by nurses. The courses are accredited by the Tennessee Nurses
Association (TNA) and meet all ANCC guidelines.
About Catalyst Learning Company
Catalyst Learning Company is a leader in healthcare workforce development. Nationally known for
School at Work ®, the premier career development system for entry-level employees, Catalyst Learning
also has tools for mid-level professionals. Catalyst Learning works with the nation’s most progressive
healthcare organizations including academic, regional and community hospitals, as well as large systems.
Many have achieved “Best Place to Work” status in their community or received national honors such as
the prestigious Baldrige National Quality Award. For more information on Catalyst Learning Company
please visit catalystlearning.com or call 502-584-7337.
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