As nurses near retirement age, replacing them can present challenges, especially at a rural hospital. McDonough District Hospital Chief Nursing Officer Wayne Laramie, says being strategic with recruitment is necessary:
“Really have to be smart as a Chief Nursing Officer and put your time and energy on those that might travel an hour to work for you or who have parents that are farmers and want to stay in the community. It is a misnomer that you need to start your nursing career in a big facility; it is quite opposite. I think smaller can be better to launch your career, give you that solid base so you understand OB, the ER, ICU, acute care, medical surgery, and you get to know your leaders and your educators are right there with you. One of the strategies I love is to put an educator on night shift so that they can be rounded on and supported, because they will share with an educator their weaknesses and fears more than they will their leaders or peers.”
