IVCC student nurses got hands-on experience in assessing children in the college Day Care Center on Oct. 9.
Instructor Bonnie Beardsley said the students, enrolled in Fundamentals of Nursing (NUR 121), measured height, weight, took vital signs and did developmental screenings of the children.
The assessments determine the children’s personal and social interaction skills, their motor skills and their language development compared to other children of the same age, Beardsley said.
"Students interact with the children playing games that elicit responses to evaluate the child," she explained.
Nursing 121, an entry-level course developed a year ago by Beardsley and instructor Pam Mammano, introduces students to the physical, cognitive and psychosocial issues that impact individuals are various stages of life.
"Students begin with a community assessment, looking at overall strengths and weaknesses of surrounding communities," Beardsley said.
As part of their clinical assignments, the students go into various community settings such as day care settings, high rises and nursing homes, to practice the assessment techniques they learn in the classroom.
An important part of their learning includes the development of a teaching plan, directed at prevention of illness and promotion of health, Beardsley said.
"Students develop an understanding of various roles that take nursing beyond the traditional boundaries of the hospital setting," she added.
10/29/98 the Apache