New program at CDP Health Care System
There’s nothing like learning by doing, and Nursing Internships from
Coteau Des Prairies offer just that. The nursing internship is for third
and fourth year students who are in school to earn their RN degree.
“During my time at CDP, I learned more than I ever could have imagined,”
says Abby Drew, a nursing student. Abby was the first to complete the
new surgical nurse internship program, but she won’t be the last.
Coteau Des Prairies found that the program was beneficial to all involved
and the hope is to be able to expand nursing internship opportunities.
April Hieb, Chief Nursing Officer, says, “In the future, we plan
to offer internships for prospective RNs in all areas of our critical
access hospital (CAH). The rural hospital experience is a unique one,
and we know students will benefit from the variety of experience and education
that they can only get by working at a CAH.”
Abby agrees: “Since CDP is a smaller hospital, I was able to be a
nurse intern for the emergency department, the hospital floor, the clinic,
and surgical services. In each area, I was able to see and learn from
all the staff.”
As a nursing intern, students get valuable training and education as they
are on their path to becoming RNs, says Brooke Wegener, Surgical Coordinator
at CDP. “They will become familiar with the fundamental skills required
to provide patient care before, during, and after surgery, and they will
have the opportunity to formulate diagnoses and participate in care planning,
all while working closely with a registered nurse.” Brooke adds
that the experience is especially meaningful at a critical access hospital
where there is rich opportunity to learn a variety of essential skills.
“This internship has helped me feel so much more confident in my
abilities,” says Abby. “I’m hoping to return to the
area after graduating in December 2019. I would love to be a part of the
wonderful staff at Coteau Des Prairies.”
The nursing internship is a paid internship for 40 hours a week and requires
a minimum of a ten week commitment. Third and fourth-year nursing students
are encouraged to learn more and apply at
www.cdphealth.com.
Coteau des Prairies believes in education and experience at every level.
Students who do not yet qualify for the nursing internship may wish to
pursue job shadowing opportunities or other, non-medical internships with
CDP. These are especially suited for high school and college students
interested in a career in medicine.
