One fall day, a Student Prince decided to go on a little adventure. “It won’t be long before I have a career,” the Prince said, “so I’d better start preparing now.” So with some ’Berg education under their hat, and some connections in their back pocket, the Student Prince began forging their way through an internship.
We continue our web series, Internship Chronicles.
Chapter 41: A Nurse in the Making
Jade Torres is a senior from Bucyrus, Ohio. She is majoring in Health Science with minors in Biology and Psychology (nursing concentration). She is planning to attend an accelerated nursing program to earn her MSN in nursing, then will pursue work in a labor and delivery unit or the NICU. She’s starting her journey by completing an internship at Wyandot Memorial Hospital in Upper Sandusky, Ohio.
How did you find your internship, or how did the internship find you?
I found my internship with the help of my academic advisor, Dr. Jena Suffel. She put me in contact with the Director of Emergency Nursing at Wyandot Memorial Hospital.
What did you expect from your internship initially?
Initially, I expected to learn the daily tasks of an emergency department nurse, and what the 12-hour hospital shifts feel like. I knew that I wouldn't be able to gain much hands-on experience, but I was excited to soak up as much information and experience as possible.
What really happens in your day-to-day work?
Although there is no such thing as normal day-to-day in the emergency room, throughout a 12-hour shift I would listen to shift change reports, check supply carts, escort patients to their rooms, and take vitals. I got to watch the nurse triage patients and chart necessary information while conversing with patients to make them as comfortable as possible. During my time at the hospital, I saw stroke patients, finger lacerations, motor vehicle accident victims, and much more. From this experience, I gained extensive knowledge concerning vitals, IVs, lab work, charting, transportation processes, etc.
What connections have you made?
Through this experience, I met numerous nurses and doctors and gained a glimpse of several concentrations such as the ED and the ICU. I created a meaningful and lasting connection with the nurse I interned with. She provided me with a wealth of knowledge and more hands-on experience than I originally expected. We connected on a personal level as well, and I'm so grateful for this experience.
What is the most valuable thing you’ll bring back to the classroom after this experience?
The most valuable thing I'll bring back to the classroom from my experience is how to connect with patients and make them feel comfortable. I've also learned how important the ability to remain calm and collected amid chaos can be. Being personable doesn't come naturally for everyone, so observing and learning from someone else is extremely helpful. Additionally, this experience has provided me with a jump start when learning basic nursing skills and procedures. I'm hopeful this experience will give me a competitive edge when applying to accelerated nursing programs.
If your internship was a book or a chapter in a book, what should it be titled?
"The Calm Force Combatting the Chaotic Storm"