21 New Nurses Will Have Impact on Staffing
DANVILLE, VA - (May 9, 2007) - Danville Regional Medical Center has hired 21 nurses who will report to work next month.
"We are delighted that we could attract this many new nurses," said Art Doloresco, Danville Regional's CEO. "With the nationwide shortage, nurses have many choices for where they can work, and we're pleased they have chosen Danville Regional."
Having 21 more nurses will have a significant impact on staffing, Doloresco said. "When these registered nurses report for work next month, we will have a vacancy rate of less than five percent, compared with the national average of 12-14 percent," he said. Danville Regional will employ approximately 300 registered nurses when the new nurses begin work.
On occasion, there may be some shortage of nurses on specific units, Doloresco explained. "When a nurse calls in at the last moment that he or she can't work, it takes time for us to find a replacement for that shift," he said. "In some cases, we can't find a nurse to fill that particular shift."
The new nurses will work in various departments throughout the Medical Center, including the telemetry unit, ER, operating room, medical oncology and orthopedics/neurology. "We ask them their area of interest and honor their requests as much as we can," said Judy Laister, Director of Human Resources.
The nurses come from Danville Regional's School of Nursing class that will graduate in June. "Our experience is that when you develop your own employees, they are more committed," said Laister. "These nurses have been studying in the Medical Center and have already developed camaraderie with other health professionals here, and they are familiar with the equipment and building. Their hiring demonstrates the value of our nursing school."
Avis Toomer of Danville is starting a new career after 11 years in the workforce. "I enjoy being with people," she said when asked why she chose to be a nurse. "People need sunshine in their lives, and I like to help them feel better." Toomer said she had been a patient in the Medical Center and received excellent care.
Jennifer Phelps of the Dry Fork section of the County lost her job in 2004 and decided to find a job with more security. "I always wanted to be a nurse, and now I am excited to have the opportunity to help others," she said. "In my clinical training, I have participated in quality care that is provided to patients at the Medical Center. I am delighted to be in a position to give the community quality care close to home."
Nursing will be the first permanent job for Joy Terry of Danville. "The atmosphere to support new nurses at the Medical Center is excellent," she said. "The care here is the best possible that can be provided in a teamwork setting."
When they report next month, these nurses will have experienced nurses to support them in orientation. "We believe the transition will be smooth for them," said Laister.
Danville Regional offers attractive compensation packages, Laister said. "While compensation is important, the work environment is also a priority for nurses. We work hard to maintain an excellent place for nurses to deliver care."
The Medical Center has openings in other positions. Anyone interested should visit www.danvilleregional.com/job_opps or call 434 799.3764.
