Lower Keys Medical Center Registered Nurses Complete Nurse Residency Program

KEY WEST, FL, AUGUST 14, 2026 - Ten registered nurses on the Lower Keys Medical Center staff recently completed the hospital's New Graduate RN Program. For all newly graduated nurses who join the hospital, the mentorship and training curriculum supports their transition from student to practicing registered nurse, helping them develop decision-making skills, enhancing clinical nursing leadership practices, and promoting the incorporation of research-based practice. 
  
New nursing school graduates work in various units in the hospital and often advance into specialty areas such as the cardiac catheterization lab, emergency services, and intensive care. Monique Lomrance, who is participating in the New Graduate RN Program, shared her experience. “The residency program is very supportive. I enjoy having the opportunity to shadow different departments in the hospital and appreciate the continuous learning and support.” 
  
The New Graduate RN Program has been in place since 2019. Led by Tiffany James, RN, it includes mentorship, lectures, hands-on skill training, critical-thinking development, and specialty training by subject matter experts. Cohorts may run up to twelve weeks and vary by specialty. 
“Attracting and retaining nurses is a top priority for Lower Keys Medical Center, and this program is one way that we can offer new nurses extra support,” said Drew Bigby, chief executive officer. “Having a strong and engaged nursing staff is critical to helping us to maintain high quality care and a positive patient experience.”  
  
For more information about the Lower Keys Medical Center New Graduate RN Program, contact [email protected]. 
  
Caption: Registered nurses who have participated in the New Graduate RN Program at Lower Keys Medical Center include Angela Blanco, Nadejda Filatova, Tierney Boyle, and Monique Lomrance. 
  
About Lower Keys Medical Center 
Lower Keys Medical Center is an acute care community hospital offering 24 hour emergency department services. Accreditations include The Joint Commission Acute Care Hospital Program and Primary Stroke Center, American College of Cardiology Chest Pain Center, the American College of Radiology – Mammography, and the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission - Echocardiography. The hospital is recognized by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) with a 4 Star quality rating.