Shown in photo, l to r, Amanda Rustico, Maura Meehan, Rebecca Odgers, Lori Macht, Kerri DeNovellis, and Robin Young-Cournoyer
In July, several Goodwin University nursing students completing the pediatric portion of their Nursing 210 coursework fulfilled their clinical requirement at YMCA’s Camp Chase in Burlington, CT. The University’s initial experience using this facility proved a huge success.
Students learned about medications, immunizations, health conditions, First Aid, and normal child development. Within this unique setting, they were able to promote a safe and healthy environment for the children and staff. Each student provided the campers with an informative, interactive, and fun health in-service session.
This clinical pilot program was made possible by the collaboration of Nursing Department Chair Janice Watts, pediatric Course Coordinator Robin Young Cournoyer, Camp Director Jeff Spadaccini, and Executive Director of Farmington Valley YMCA Brian Liss. Cournoyer felt the outcomes for the nursing students in this this clinical setting far exceeded expectations. The feedback from YMCA staff was extremely positive, and they look forward to welcoming back Goodwin nursing school students next year.
Most importantly, feedback from the nursing students themselves was very impressive:
“We believe that the camp provided an experience outside of the hospital setting. It allowed us to expand our clinical skills, promote health and safety, and render minor first aid to the types of patients we are learning about in class. We observed a variety of diagnoses from asthma to seizure disorders. We also experienced how critically important communication is among the camp, the parents, and the child’s physician. If we were to present on a highlight of our experience, it would include the education provided to parents to facilitate their understanding of how and why all order forms and care plans need to be completed and submitted.”
Learn more about the Goodwin University Nursing program.
Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.