Mountainview Regional Medical Center Launches Nurse Residency Program
4/15/2025
Program aims to empower nurses, improve retention rates, and bolster local nursing workforce
LAS CRUCES, NM, April 15, 2025 – MountainView Regional Medical Center has established a new nurse residency program to empower nurses to excel in their careers, while improving retention rates and encouraging nurses to stay local.
The program supports newly licensed registered nurses (RNs) as they transition from academic preparation to clinical practice. MountainView’s nurse residency program launched in March with 13 graduates from New Mexico State University and Doña Ana Community College.
“As we face a nationwide nursing shortage, our new nurse residency program at MountainView is a critical step toward not only supporting newly licensed nurses but also retaining talent right here in Las Cruces,” said MountainView CEO Matthew Conrad. “By investing in our nurses’ growth and providing a strong foundation early in their careers, we’re supporting compassionate, high-quality care in our community for years to come.”
Registered nurses are in high demand in New Mexico. According to the New Mexico Health Care Work Force Committee 2024 Annual Report, “the number of registered nurses is expected to grow by 2,914 jobs, or 15.3 percent, from 2022 to 2032.” During this time period, Las Cruces is projected to have the fastest RN employment growth rate (24 percent) in the state.
“Accredited nurse residency programs are the gold standard for transition to professional practice and yield higher nurse satisfaction, decreased nursing turnover, improved quality outcomes, and decreased healthcare costs,” said MountainView Chief Nursing Officer AJ Stephens. “We are extremely proud to offer this program to our new nursing graduates and ensure their successful entry into our wonderful profession.”
The MountainView Nurse Residency Program adheres to the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Practice Transition Accreditation Program (PTAP) standards, helping to give nursing graduates the tools to succeed in the RN workforce and contribute meaningfully to the healthcare community.
“The program is designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world nursing practice through mentorship, hands-on learning, evidence-based practice, and actual patient care delivery,” Stephens said. The program also aims to enhance clinical decision-making, critical thinking, and leadership abilities, as well as promote professional development and lifelong learning.
MountainView’s nurse residency is a 12-month program. To enroll, visit mountainviewregional.com/career-opportunities and apply to the desired department RN residency position. Applications should be submitted no later than January or June; program start dates fall in February and July. For information, contact the RN director of education at (575) 556-3257 or send an email here.
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