Students from the associate degree in nursing (ADN) program at Kent State University at East Liverpool recently performed 113 blood pressures in three hours as part of Southern Local High School’s District Showcase, an annual community-wide festival that provides educational information to the public. In addition, numerous fundraisers for various school events took place.
Junior ADN student Patty Exline, whose son attends the school, said nursing students who participate in such community activities refine their skills and grow as a care giver. “Students give blood pressure while educating the community about hypertension and other ailments,” she said. “It helps students hone their skills.”
The event was just one of many community-minded activities that the students participate in as part of the program.
Director Dr. Anne Freitas said her program, like all at Kent State University, strives to incorporate both hands-on learning with knowledge gleaned from a text book. “Our students are well-rounded, knowledgeable and compassionate individuals. Hands-on learning helps promote what they have learned in the classroom,” she said. “This helps them become better nurses.”
The ADN program has scheduled a Red Cross Blood mobile drive April 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the East Liverpool Campus Slak Shak. Those that are able are invited to donate.