Campers participated in several simulation exercises.
Campers participated in several simulation exercises.

NURSE CAMP EDUCATES AND EXCITES STUDENTS

Middle and high school students from all over Collin County made the most of their summer as they learned about health-related careers at Collin College’s Nurse Camp.

The camp originally started in 2008 with 20 campers and has since grown to more than 70 campers who attended this year, said Collin College Dean of Nursing Donna Hatch.

“Through Nurse Camp, students who are interested in the nursing profession see the amount of hard work that is required to be a registered nurse,” Hatch said. “They can also learn more about other health-related careers.”

Faculty and staff guided students through numerous simulations and tasks to show a day in the life of a nurse.

Birthing simulations with advanced, interactive mannequins that actually give birth to simulated infants let students try their hands at taking care of newborns. Games such as bedpan and wheelchair races allowed students to have fun while learning valuable skills.

Students also learned about general health and safety through “alcohol goggles” that simulated intoxication. A driving and texting seminar and a heart and lung demonstration also educated students.

A CareFlite helicopter landing at the Central Park Campus and CareFlite staff answering students’ questions capped off Nurse Camp.

“Nurse Camp has grown exponentially through word-of-mouth each year and we hope it will continue,” Hatch said. “The camp is one of the best opportunities available for younger students to see how the health field is growing, and what kind of exciting job opportunities are available.”