Mid-Carolina AHEC Simulation Activity Allows Students to Step into Nurses’ Shoes

Students gathered in hallway holding signs that say "I love nursing", "#AHEC", "Super Nurse"

Prior to COVID-19

Students in the Mid-Carolina AHEC Health Careers Program were able to participate in an interactive activity that allowed them to act as nurses during a simulation activity. The experience was offered through Mid-Carolina AHEC’s continued partnership with Midlands Technical College: Airport Campus. Chaunta Simmons, RN, an instructor with the college’s Health Sciences Department, developed the experience to provide a way for students to actively learn about the nursing profession. Together with Nursing Department Chair Shirley Bannister, RN, they explained the roles of nurses, provided a brief presentation, and enabled students to perform as nurses by taking care of their simulated patient. Students completed a series of tasks common to the day-to-day nursing practice such as patient assessment, foley catheter management, patient positioning, post-operative management, medication administration and safety all while adorned with personal protective equipment (PPE).

"The presentation and skills lab were very enjoyable. The presenter was very knowledgeable and gave helpful tips about searching for a career,” remarked Tashauna M., HCP student. “We learned how to check a pulse and how to properly roll a pregnant patient on her side! Although the task was difficult, the nursing instructors were extremely helpful."

Mid-Carolina’s Health Careers Program is a health career exploration experience for high school students that includes sessions and activities to promote academic success, career development and personal growth. Activities demonstrate the use of communication, math, science and other skills as part of a curriculum specifically designed for future health professions students of South Carolina. To learn more about the program, visit Mid-Carolina AHEC’s website.

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