Monday, June 11, 2018
tour Cherokee Indian Hospital meeting Kayla Holland, the Nurse Educator. Our day was filled to the brim with learning about history and what makes this region and culture unique. It was raining intermittently but did not stop the performance of Unto These Hills.
Mrs. Holland has such a way of making the students feel welcome and finds ways to help them learn as evidence in the fun "awards" she gave the students based on her reading their application/ cover letter for this experience.
Tuesday June 12, 2018
This was the students first day of observational clinical at Cherokee Indian Hospital. Students rotated through Inpatient, Primary Care and the Emergency Department. Two students had the opportunity to go to the outpatient Suboxone treatment center and be present in a group who are recovering from addictions. At lunch, we had the opportunity to have Victoria Harlan, RN BSN, share what is was like growing up as part of the Cherokee community, part of her story and the importance of nurses listening to the story of those we interact with. In the student blogs you will read more details about what insightful learning took place from these interactions. After lunch the students rotated to another area of the hospital to get a glimpse into this unique health care system.
Wednesday June 13, 2018
Today we went to a very rural area of the Qualla Boundary to a section of the Boundary called "Snowbird" near a town called Robbinsville. Here we had a chance to tour a residential treatment center for those recovering from addiction. It was newly constructed and comprehensive center has only been open since January 2018. The need for this place is very evident in the community. I found it a beacon of hope. Please take time to read the student's more detailed blog about this.
In the evening, we attended Macedonia Cherokee Baptist Church. We arrived by 5:30 pm to get the donations brought into the building. The Pastor and his family were overwhelmed with joy as they seen first hand the outpouring of the Methodist College family to their community. Our group stayed for the one hour mid week service and had the opportunity to observe many elders in the church some which speak Cherokee. Pastor Dan Conseen and Mrs. Tracy Conseen are also employed at the Cherokee Indian Hospital. Pastor Dan works with many that are recovering from addictions, so it was interesting to see the variety of programs their church supports outside of the typical Sunday and Wednesday services.
Thursday June 14, 2018
Awake and on the road by 0650. Traveled 70 minutes to Asheville, NC to tour several Mission Hospital units as well as the Reuter Children's clinic. The students had made intriguing comparisons to that vs. Cherokee hospital as well as our local hospitals in Central Illinois. It is very comprehensive and state of the art! I must say if I was a new graduate, this would be the place I would want to start my career! It is the largest hospital in Western North Carolina and is tailored to meet the needs of children and their families. A pediatric Emergency room is under construction and I hope to take students to see this next year!
The Biltmore Mansion sits on a gorgeous 8,000 acre estate. It was built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1880's. Vanderbilt, who was an art collector, was a member of the prominent Vanderbilt family who made their fortune with steamboats, railroads and other business enterprises. The location is literally 5 minutes away from the hospital and the closest thing to a castle in the USA, of course we had to go see it! It was awesome to compare and contrast the regions we have traveled thus far. The Vanderbilt descendants (the Cecil family) are very involved in the community of Asheville and have contributed land and much money to help establish sections of Mission Hospital and the Reuter clinic.
Friday June 15, 2018
This was our last day at Cherokee Indian Hospital and we were still given such amazing experiences even though Joint Commission was also their for a visit! The hospitality that we receive when coming here has never been matched by any organization I have ever encountered. The students expressed their gratitude to those who have shared with us and will be part of our story as we care for others.
After clinical some students went tubing with Chaperone Brenda & Molly, others went shopping with me. We then traveled to Clingman's Dome for some amazing views of the Smoky Mountains!
Saturday June 16, 2018
Fun filled day! Rafting, hiking & shopping! I have never felt so tired at the end of a week but it was worth it!
Sunday June 17, 2018
Happy Father's day! I think Phil was missing his family for sure as he couldn't keep some of his souvenirs in his bag he had gotten for his little girl. What a fun bunch of students who demonstrated professionalism, team work and flexibility. Before leaving on this course, I was getting weary of the efforts that go into travel courses such as this. However, the experience that was had, hospitality received and the learning that took place will keep me going for a few more years I hope. I am glad to feel inspired more than tired as I have returned the 12 hour journey back to Peoria after a week overflowing with opportunities!
No comments:
Post a Comment