The Tiered Skills Acquisition Model (TSAM®) Nursing Orientation Workshop

Workshop Overview

Join us for an engaging in-person workshop centered on the Tiered Skills Acquisition Model (TSAM®), a proven, evidence-based approach to nursing orientation. Led by Dr. Ellen Joswiak, co-innovator of the TSAM® framework, this session will explore the foundational stages of TSAM® and its three essential pillars that support a robust orientation process. Participants will dive into the TSAM® Best Practices Toolkit, discuss common implementation challenges, and receive practical strategies to foster success within their own organizations. The workshop also includes the development of preceptor tools aimed at validating competence and strengthening clinical judgment in new nurses.

Why TSAM®?

TSAM® provides distinct advantages over traditional orientation models. It offers preceptees exposure to a broader range of patient care scenarios and allows them to observe expert nurses managing full patient loads. A key feature of TSAM® is its personalized pacing—preceptees progress through tiers based on demonstrated competence rather than fixed timelines. With its emphasis on skill progression, collaborative learning, and dedicated development time, TSAM® cultivates confident, capable nurses who are well-prepared to deliver safe, high-quality care.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the foundational principles and theoretical frameworks that support the Tiered Skills Acquisition Model in nursing orientation.

• Identify and explain the three core pillars of TSAM® and their role in developing clinical competence.

• Construct a TSAM® orientation record and experience tracker to monitor preceptee progress and support individualized learning.

• Recognize the Nurse Manager’s role in facilitating and sustaining effective clinical orientation using TSAM®.

• Apply strategies to shift the culture of precepting and utilize tools that promote preceptor success and engagement.

• Utilize change management and readiness assessment tools to support TSAM® implementation within diverse clinical settings.

• Evaluate implementation of best practices and outcome metrics to ensure sustainability and continuous improvement of the TSAM® model.

• Engage in reflective discussion to consolidate key takeaways and plan for practical application in your organizations.

6.75 Contact Hours will be provided for individuals who attend the full session and complete an evaluation.

This activity is jointly provided by Creative Health Care Insight and Creative Health Care Management. Creative Health Care Management is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.

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Host or Publisher Creative Health Care Insight (CHCI)