SXU Nursing Students Hold Blood Pressure Screening Event
Saint Xavier University (SXU) undergraduate nursing students recently held a community blood pressure screening event for parishioners of Queen of Martyrs Parish. The screening was held for students to practice clinical skills with different age groups, increase visibility and promote health within the community, and engage in service. Six students participated in the event and were able to screen 20 parishioners and school employees. Engaging in hands-on opportunities helps prepare students for success.
"This event helped our students to gain confidence in their skills and learn how to communicate with people of different age groups and teach them about health promotion. It also helps to move out of the classroom, where we mainly practice on each other and mannequins, to engage in hands-on work," said Colleen O'Hearn, assistant professorial lecturer.
Students were thrilled to provide resources to the community that would otherwise be limited to them and also make a connection with nursing theoretical framework and apply it to practical settings.
"I enjoyed getting to know the members of the community. They all seemed happy to let us practice our skills on them while also learning about the risks from having high blood pressure," said Monica Olguin, a nursing student.
"I really enjoyed interacting with the community and getting a chance to practice my nursing skills," added nursing student Angelica Bobadilla.
Nursing faculty were proud of their students and believe performing blood pressure screenings helps students expand their knowledge on community nursing while interacting with a diverse community.
"When students host community events, they can get involved and give back. They are also able to take what they've learned during their classroom and lab hours and apply it to real-life situations," said Kathleen Flanagan, nursing professor.