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SHS’s Desiray Rodriguez works alongside nursing professionals in the infusion center at Baptist Hospital.
SHS’s Desiray Rodriguez works alongside nursing professionals in the infusion center at Baptist Hospital.
About 79% of nurses already report that their units are inadequately staffed per the 2023 State of Nursing survey, according to Nurse.org. For most states, including Texas, the dim data means maintaining current nursing workforce levels won’t be enough to stop the shortage. Texas is projected to get 86% of its nursing demand met.
All isn’t bleak, however; the next generation of health care professionals has taken their first significant step in making a difference in the lives of patients.
According to Silsbee ISD Communication Director Kelsey Johnson, Silsbee High School’s Patient Care Tech practicum students embarked on their clinical journey Sept. 6, marking the beginning of a valuable hands-on experience at Baptist Hospital of Beaumont. The school’s Patient Care Tech program is in its second year.
Under the guidance of experienced nurses, student health care providers had the opportunity to put their knowledge and skills into practice, making a meaningful impact on the well-being of patients and gaining invaluable realworld experience.
By the end of their first day, students were confidently performing various medical tasks independently.
The students are Susan McAnelley, assisting patients in the Julie and Ben Rogers Cancer Institute; Brooke Jeansonne, rotating through the Labor and Delivery Department; Dwight Pitts, performing multiple EKGs on patients; Desiray Rodriguez working alongside nursing professionals in the infusion center; Kennedy Lockhart in the Outpatient Surgery Center, helping prepare patients for their pre-op procedures; Mark Vickery assisting the physical therapist on the orthopedic unit; and Macie Sheppard working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Last month, the students wrapped up orientation by touring different units including imaging, EKG/echo, labor and delivery, mother/baby, NICU, wound care, infusion center, surgery center, and the Julie and Ben Rogers Cancer Institute.
Health Science Instructor Heather D. Wiggins, BSN-RN, said she’s proud of her practicum students for commending their professionalism and dedicated efforts.
“The students receive invaluable real-world work experience provided by the school’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department, which allows students to step off campus and gain hands-on experience in their chosen field,” added Wiggins. “We are immensely grateful to Silsbee High School for offering students this unique opportunity.”