New Nurses

Nurse orientation

Each new nurse hired at The Children's Hospital participates in a centralized orientation program consisting of didactic learning and precepted clinical experience. RNs hired as new graduates, RNs with little or no pediatric experience, and those re-entering practice after extended time away are offered additional orientation through the Pediatric Nurse Development Program (PNDP). Download the PNDP brochure for detailed information (.pdf).

Classroom content is offered seven times a year to every newly hired RN based on learner need. These three classroom days include JCAHO required material, as well as general pediatric topics. RNs participating in PNDP attend two additional class days. Unit-based supplemental classes are offered on a regular basis.  Each RN is paired with experienced preceptor(s) on the individual units. Competency Guidelines specify the nursing process skills expected for completion of orientation. Precepted clinical orientation lasts for 4-16 weeks depending on unit, longer in intensive care areas.  For more information about the Nursing Orientation program, you may either email Cindy San Miguel or call her at The Children's Hospital at 720-777-1234.

Careers and support for new nurses

The Children's Hospital hires recent nursing graduates from nursing schools with accredited Baccalaureate programs. Learn more about opportunities for new nurses and our Bilingüe Tuition Repayment Program. We also offer a New-Graduate Nurse Residency Program, which is designed to facilitate the transition of a recent graduate from a student to a competent nurse at The Children's Hospital.