The certified nursing assistant students have been working around the clock in preparation for their certification exam in the spring. Before the test, they have to complete a total of 40 hours of service. They went to the Fairfield Nursing and Rehabilitation Center last week to complete their hours and help the nurses and aides. They had the chance to practice the procedures they have been learning in class. 

     “It was a really great experience,” senior Tristan Cole said. “I am excited for the certification test in spring.” 

     The nursing students were able to help out with anything the residents needed. They did showers and bed baths, changed a resident’s brief, helped feed and clothe the residents and completed nail care. They also learned how to transfer and weigh patients, how to care for catheters, and ways to use a Hoyer Lift. 

     “I was really grateful to have the opportunity to receive hands-on learning in the nursing home,” senior Ashtyn Barzda said. “It was really eye-opening and taught me the importance of being patient with people. I look forward to using this experience whenever I go into the nursing field.”

     Spending time at the nursing home gave the nursing students a chance to have real-life experience and practice procedures on an actual resident rather than on a mannequin in class. On the last day at the nursing home, the CNA students attended a memorial of one of the patients who had passed away a couple of days prior. They got to sit with the residents and converse with them about the funny memories they had with him. The students will continue to practice their procedures and learn much more before their test

     “I loved the fact that the last day some students were sad about it being their last day because they got attached and enjoyed helping,” adviser Stacy Cornett said. “ I am glad my students had a great hands-on experience while also making connections with the residents.”