Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Appointed New Nursing Chief
Desiree Ritter has been named the senior vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Nursing Jobs
Children's Hospital Los Angeles has selected Desiree Ritter as its permanent senior vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer. Ritter had served in an interim capacity for the role since July 2026.
Why it matters
The appointment concludes a national search for a leader to oversee the hospital's nursing operations. Ritter brings significant internal experience to the role, having served as a clinical nurse and executive director at the facility.
Ritter has served as interim chief nursing officer since July 2026 and previously held positions as executive director and associate chief nursing officer. She began her tenure at the hospital as a clinical nurse.
The players
Desiree Ritter
She serves as the senior vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer at Children's Hospital Los Angeles.
Children's Hospital Los Angeles
This is a pediatric academic medical center based in Los Angeles that provides care for children and adolescents.
The details
Ritter previously oversaw acute care and operations as executive director and associate chief nursing officer. Her history with the hospital also includes launching the organization's COVID-19 screening process.
Timeline
July 2026: Desiree Ritter began serving as interim chief nursing officer.
October 6, 2026: The hospital announced the permanent appointment.
Market Landscape
This appointment reflects a broader trend of large pediatric medical centers prioritizing internal institutional knowledge during high-level executive recruitment. The decision positions the hospital to maintain continuity in nursing management following a competitive national search.
The transition to permanent leadership provides stability for the hospital's nursing staff and patient care delivery teams. Patients and families can expect consistent service protocols as Ritter continues her tenure in the senior leadership position.
The takeaway
Internal promotions at major health centers often serve to preserve organizational culture during periods of executive turnover. This appointment ensures that leadership responsibilities remain with an individual familiar with the facility's specific clinical operations.
Further reading
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