Celebrating Excellence: RWJUH Hamilton Honors 20 Team Members for Their Commitment to Geriatric Care and NICHE Program Involvement

Hamilton Township, NJ, September 3, 2025 – Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton (RWJUH Hamilton) recently celebrated the achievements of 20 team members who completed the NICHE (Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders) program. This program is the largest geriatric nursing initiative available, aimed at delivering high-quality, evidence-based care for older adults. With this designation, RWJUH Hamilton reinforces its commitment to excellence in elder care.

Dawn Hutchinson, the Chief Nursing Officer, expressed pride in the team’s dedication. “Their commitment helps us meet the unique needs of our older patients. What matters to them is important to us,” she said. The ceremony was a heartfelt recognition of the efforts by clinical leaders and nurses who completed extensive training in geriatric care.

The NICHE program offers specialized training for various roles:

• Leadership Training: Prepares clinical leaders to implement best practices.
• Geriatric Resource Nurse Training: Equips nurses with expertise to guide their peers on elderly care.
• Patient Care Assistant Training: Teaches nursing assistants how to provide compassionate care to older adults.

This initiative also reflects a broader trend in healthcare. Recent studies indicate that hospitals focusing on geriatric care see better outcomes for their patients. A 2022 report by the American Hospital Association revealed that age-friendly practices lead to a 30% reduction in hospital readmissions among older adults. Clearly, investing in specialized training can make a huge difference.

RWJUH Hamilton has also enhanced patient mobility as an essential part of recovery. “Regular movement is vital for independence and health,” says Lisa Nevius, Administrative Director of Patient Care. This focus not only aids recovery but also promotes a sense of dignity among older patients.

In an exciting twist, RWJUH Hamilton involved local high school junior volunteers in this care initiative. Trained by healthcare staff, these teens assist with activities that help reduce the risk of delirium, support social interaction, and provide emotional comfort to patients. This not only benefits patients but also encourages youthful enthusiasm in the healthcare environment.

The NICHE program isn’t just about training; it’s about cultivating a culture of kindness and respect for older adults, ensuring they receive quality care tailored to their needs. RWJUH Hamilton’s commitment extends beyond immediate healthcare to fostering community support for elder wellness.

As we look to the future, RWJUH Hamilton shows how focused training and compassionate care can transform the experience for older patients. This is a model that other institutions might consider as they aim to improve care for aging populations.

Discover more about RWJUH Hamilton’s initiatives at rwjbh.org/geriatrics.

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