Proving the ROI of nurse residency and leadership development
As nurse turnover and leadership gaps continue to challenge health systems, development can no longer be treated as
optional. In this HealthLeaders podcast episode, Evy Olson, vice president of nursing programs at Vizient, examines
how evidence-based nurse residency and leadership transition programs strengthen the workforce while protecting care
quality.
Olson discusses why the transition from nursing school to professional practice is so difficult for early-career
nurses and where many organizations fall short in preparing nurse leaders for today’s operational, emotional and
strategic demands. She explains how structured development programs build competence, confidence and commitment,
leading to lower turnover, stronger teams, and measurable financial and clinical benefits. The conversation also
explores how data, mentorship and evolving workforce expectations are reshaping what nurses need from their
organizations and what gives reason for optimism about the profession’s future.