At Kaiser Permanente San Leandro Medical Center, we deeply value the growth and development of nurse residents, recognizing it as central to building a lasting culture of nursing excellence. While KP nurse residents already participate in a robust program to support their transition into nursing practice, we also provide opportunities that go beyond clinical skills, fostering empathy and awareness of the communities we serve.

One such opportunity is the poverty simulation, offered in partnership with Stanford University. In this 4‑hour immersive experience, Stanford’s physician assistant students and KP San Leandro nurse residents step into the roles of real-life families navigating a month of poverty. While the simulation cannot replicate hunger itself, it powerfully conveys the stress, challenges, and decision-making pressures faced by families living in poverty. This experience helps participants better understand the realities many patients encounter.

In 2025, we hosted two simulations, engaging over five cohorts and 30 nurse residents. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

One nurse reflected: “I just wanted to say thank you for the amazing opportunity. In the beginning, when the organizers shared that this experience may trigger some emotions, I thought to myself, that’s impossible. But when I played the role of a ‘mom’ and as a real-life mom, I truly felt the stress of not being able to provide enough food or even have childcare for my family. I now will make sure I am aware of our community resources to share with my patients if I ever find them in similar situations.”

Through experiences like these, KP nurse residents not only strengthen their professional skills but also deepen their compassion, ensuring that patient care is delivered with empathy, understanding, and respect.