Johnson & Johnson is working with Rutgers University-Camden to help prepare the next generation of nurses for a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.

Thanks to a $300,000 contribution from the New Brunswick-based global healthcare giant, the Rutgers School of Nursing-Camden could move forward with a project to modernize its nursing simulation lab.

Now known as the Johnson & Johnson Simulation Lab, the space is designed to prepare nursing students for real-world clinical care. J&J’s sponsorship supported the purchase of advanced high-fidelity patient simulators, electronic medical record training systems, simulation technologies and an innovative pharmacology lab, according to Rutgers.

Considered an increasing important component of nursing education, simulation-based learning enables students to develop critical judgment, communication and decision-making skills in realistic, hands-on settings before entering patient care environments, Rutgers said.

J&J’s funding will also provide five $10,000 scholarships for first-generation nursing students who are facing financial barriers entering the profession.

Strengthening the nursing workforce

During an Aug. 12 dedication ceremony of the enhanced lab, Rutgers University School of Nursing-Camden Dean Donna Nickitas said, “This generous support from Johnson & Johnson represents a powerful investment in our students, our faculty, and the communities we serve.”

“By modernizing our simulation learning environment and expanding scholarship support for first-generation nursing students, this initiative strengthens our ability to deliver a rigorous, practice-ready education while opening doors for talented students whose voices, experiences, and leadership are essential to the future of nursing,” she said.

J&J Vice President of Corporate Brand and Purpose Howard Reid said, “Nurses are the backbone of healthcare and are essential to advancing health outcomes. Johnson & Johnson has supported nurses since 1897. This sponsorship to Rutgers-Camden reflects our longstanding commitment to elevating the critical role nurses play in healthcare delivery and strengthening the nursing workforce through education, innovation, and partnership.”

As healthcare systems continue to face workforce challenges nationwide, efforts to expand nursing education remain critical to ensuring a qualified pipeline. Rutgers-Camden and J&J touted their shared mission of educating future healthcare professionals and ensuring that New Jersey has a highly-trained, future ready nursing workforce.

During its long-standing relationship with Rutgers, J&J has supported several nursing initiatives over the years, including student resilience and leadership training, disaster-nursing programs and scholarships.