Akron Children’s Nurse Residency Program earns national accreditation with distinction
10-14-2025 (Ohio)
Akron Children’s Nurse Residency Program has been awarded Accreditation with Distinction by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation in Practice Transition Programs (PTAP), the highest recognition given by the commission.
The four-year accreditation is effective Aug. 25, 2025, through Oct. 31, 2029. This is the third time Akron Children’s has received the honor, with prior accreditations in 2018 and 2021. Accreditation with Distinction places the program among the top nurse residency programs in the nation.
The one-year residency program is designed to support new nurses as they transition into professional practice. Each resident is paired with a preceptor for clinical support, participates in structured education and simulation experiences, and engages in peer support groups. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, collaboration, and confidence-building, preparing graduates to deliver safe, high-quality patient care. New cohorts begin every two months, with about 150 nurse residents starting annually.
“Accreditation with Distinction is a reflection of our commitment to supporting new nurses at a critical point in their careers,” said Christine Young, chief nursing officer and the Grace Wakulchik Endowed Chair for Nursing at Akron Children’s. “Through mentorship, education, and the strength of our professional practice model, we prepare nurses to grow into confident, compassionate caregivers.”
According to Young, Akron Children’s nurses are committed to delivering evidence-based care that is patient- and family-centered, compassionate, and equitable. The hospital’s Nursing Professional Practice Model encourages patients and families to be active participants in their care and decision-making, reinforcing Akron Children’s mission of partnership in healing.
In addition to its nationally recognized residency program, Akron Children’s supports the professional development of nurses through continuing education, career advancement opportunities, and shared governance. By integrating research and evidence into practice, the hospital advances nursing care for all patients and creates a supportive environment where nurses can thrive from their first year through every stage of their career.
The ANCC Practice Transition Accreditation Program sets the global benchmark for residency and fellowship programs that help registered nurses successfully move into new practice settings. Programs accredited with distinction demonstrate excellence in curriculum, outcomes, and nurse support.
