Cooper University Health Care’s nurse residency program earns accreditation with distinction

Cooper University Health Care’s Nurse Residency Program has achieved accreditation with Distinction in the Practice Transition Accreditation Program (PTAP) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. 

This recognition reflects the program’s preparation for newly licensed nurses to transition into professional practice.

“This recognition is a powerful validation of the strength of our Nurse Residency Program and the extraordinary dedication of our nursing teams,” said Dr. Kathleen Devine, senior vice president and chief nursing executive at Cooper University Health Care. “Achieving PTAP Accreditation with Distinction reflects our deep commitment to supporting new nurses as they grow in confidence, competence, and compassion. When we invest in our nurses, we elevate the care we provide to every patient, every day.”

This accreditation affirms that Cooper’s Nurse Residency Program exceeds rigorous national standards for education, support and professional development. It reflects the commitment to clinical excellence, patient safety and developing the next generation of nurses by the region’s leading academic health system. This accreditation also enhances Cooper’s ability to attract and retain top nursing talent, positioning the health system as a premier destination for emerging nurses nationwide.

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) is a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association. ANCC’s credentialing programs certify and recognize individual nurses in specialty practice areas. ANCC recognizes health-care organizations that promote nursing excellence and quality patient outcomes while providing safe, positive work environments.

In addition, ANCC accredits health-care organizations that provide and approve continuing nursing education and accredits transition to practice programs and prepares nurses for new practice roles.

“The PTAP accreditation is a badge of honor showcasing the time, energy, and dedication invested by every Cooper team member, both nursing and non-nursing professionals, who work tirelessly to support our new nurses,” said Renee Cherfane, director of the Nurse Residency Program at Cooper. “It is a privilege for me to collaborate with engaged and enthusiastic nurses as they begin their careers at Cooper and develop into skilled professionals.”

This achievement reflects the collaborative efforts of Cooper’s leadership, including the PTAP team of nurse residency, professional development, and clinical leaders. 

Cooper University Health Care is an academic health system affiliated with Cooper Medical School of Rowan University. Cooper has nearly 14,000 team members, including nearly 1,600 nurses, more than 1,000 employed physicians representing 95 specialties and subspecialties and more than 600 advanced practice providers.