Here is an excerpt from the cover story in the latest issue of our VNA Cares newsletter.
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| Photo by Daria Bishop |
Recent nurse graduate Jamie Livingston gently unwraps the bandage on Michael Loiselle's foot to examine his wound. As she asks him a few questions and prepares a new bandage, her mentor, VNA nurse Jaimie McKenzie, observes quietly from the side, ready to step in if help is needed or to answer any questions Jamie might have.
Jamie is one of three new nurse graduates working as a resident at the VNA, as part of an internship and residency program developed by Vermont Nurses in Partnership (VNIP). This program allows recent graduates the opportunity to apply the skills they have learned in a variety of health care settings, including home health care, a venue that's not necessarily considered a usual first step for new nurses. This year, the VNA hired three nurse graduates to train in home health care.
"This is a great experience," says Jamie. "I'm learning so much and getting to know my clients and develop relationships with them. It's such an amazing feeling to see the difference you can make in the lives of individuals in the community."
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| Photo by Daria Bishop |
Working with a mentor, the nurse residents visit patients, apply skills they have learned and gather information and advice from experienced nurses who have a wealth of knowledge, providing a bridge between theory and reality.
"The new graduates are able to get the support they need," says Pat McGarry, RN, one of the mentors. "They bring with them enthusiasm and a readiness to learn. And at the VNA, they are able to get that hands-on experience to learn so many basic skills."
To read the full article as well as other stories of career growth at the VNA, please click here.
If you are interested in pursuing a career at the VNA, visit our Career page at www.vnacares.org/careers.
