SPARK Program

Registered nurses (RN) providing direct patient care are instrumental in achieving SIH’s mission to improve the health and well-being of all the people in the communities we serve. RNs who seek out professional growth and development opportunities positively contribute to SIH meeting the annual strategic goals of zero harm, safety, and quality in patient care. 

To support RN professional growth and development, SIH offers an optional advancement and recognition program called the SPARK Program. The SPARK Program empowers bedside RNs to remain at the bedside.

Benefits of Professional Growth and Development

• Career Growth Opportunities
• Autonomy and Empowerment over Nursing Practice
• Improved Patient Outcomes
• Increased Confidence in Providing Bedside Care

Eligibility Guidelines:

Any RN in a non-supervisory, full-time, part-time (40-72 hours/pay) or float A position providing direct patient care in the inpatient or outpatient setting in an SIH acute care facility or the Cancer Institute is eligible to participate if they also meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Employed at SIH for 6-months or longer.
• Have a satisfactory annual performance evaluation.
• Have no active counseling on file for job performance, behavior, or a Level II or III for attendance. A Level I for attendance will be allowed.

Clinical Levels:

There are five clinical levels in the SPARK Program. Based on length of nursing experience, RNs will either start at SPARK Clinical Level I or SPARK Clinical Level II. Because the program is optional, RNs can choose to advance to SPARK Clinical Level III, IV or V based on their current education level, certification status, and/or length of service at SIH at any time during their career at SIH.

Earn Points to Advance

The SPARK Program has five categories to earn points. Each category represents an area of professional growth and development that is vital to professional nursing.

S = Succession and Leadership

P = Professional Governance and Evidence-Based Practice

A = Advancing Quality and Safety

R = Resilience and Well-Being

K = Knowledge and Professional Development