Professional Development Summer Program

The PDP provides educational and clinical experience for nursing students, enhancing their prioritization, critical thinking, problem solving and decision-making skills. The program pairs the student with a Registered Nurse mentor in the clinical setting and provides a comprehensive orientation including clinical experiences and a formal case presentation.

This is a 10-week paid summer program meant for student nurses within two semesters of graduation. It runs from June to August each year. The PDP student is paired with a Registered Nurse mentor in the clinical setting

PDP Program Goals

The PDP experience is meant to ensure quality nursing care for patients and promote professional nursing practices.

The PDP student will be able to:

• Systematically collect subjective and objective assessment data to reviewed and used by the mentor
• Assist the mentor in developing, implementing and evaluating a plan of care for assigned patients
• Assist the mentor in performing nursing procedures and treatments
• Demonstrate behaviors which show regard for dignity and respect of patients, family members, visitors and co-workers
• Participate in educational pursuits and activities that enhance understanding of professional nursing practices
• Participate in maintaining a harmonious work environment

How to Apply for the PDP Program

If you are a nursing student interested in the PDP Program, you must submit the following to the Avera McKennan Human Resources Department (see below for mailing information):

1. Avera McKennan Employee Application form (available in Human Resources)
2. Interests and Expectations form
3. Interest Inventory form
4. Clinical Experience Checklist form
5. Submit two references completed by nursing instructors
6. Current transcript from college or university you are presently enrolled in

Request an application packet through email. Please include the following information in your email:

• Your name
• Mailing address
• Current school enrolled in
• Anticipated graduation date

When completed, send the packet to:
Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center
Human Resources
800 East 21st Street
Sioux Falls, SD 57117-5045

The deadline for PDP Summer 2008 is Monday, November 12th, 2007.

For more information call Avera McKennan Human Resources at (605) 322-7850. Or email Human Resources at hr@mckennan.org.