Rochester Regional Health welcomed 47 local high school students to Rochester General Hospital for hands-on exposure to nursing careers.
The fourth annual Cardinal Nurse Camp gave students entering grades 11 and 12 a week of classroom instruction, simulations and activities with health care professionals.
The program is hosted in partnership with St. John Fisher University's Wegmans School of Nursing. During the hospital portion of the camp, students explored clinical settings, practiced fundamental nursing skills and learned from Rochester Regional Health nurses and care teams.
Campers also used advanced simulation technology, including augmented reality and virtual reality environments designed to prepare nurses for patient care.
Charlene Wilson, executive vice president and chief people officer for Rochester Regional Health, said the program is an investment in the future health of local communities. She said organizers hope students leave inspired by the range of opportunities available in nursing.
Tricia Gatlin, dean of the Wegmans School of Nursing, said the camp allows students to see nursing in practice, meet working nurses and experience the teamwork, compassion and critical thinking involved in the profession.
The camp is designed for students interested in health care careers and provides an early look at clinical environments before they begin college or professional training.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to news@fingerlakes1.com.