Partnership Prepares Students for Health Care Careers
May 26, 2022
Six students from Whale Branch High School completed their senior year with a clinical rotation at Beaufort Memorial Hospital’s Medical and Pediatrics Unit, and earned job offers to return as certified nursing assistants (CNA). The hands-on experience was part of the Beaufort County School District’s Health Science Pathway Program for those seeking to pursue a career in the medical field. The partnership marks the first of its kind for Beaufort Memorial.
“It’s a great opportunity,” said senior Za’niya Pryor. "My favorite part was taking the skills that we learned in the classroom and actually using them through real-life experience."
During the six-week rotation, students worked with patients suffering from a stroke, chest pains and congestive heart failure. The students measured vital signs, bathed patients, delivered meals and helped answer patient calls for assistance.
The pathway program, led by Beaufort County Schools Health Science Clinical Instructor Celine DiSalvo, received significant support from Beaufort Memorial staff. Diane Razo, who retired in 2021 as the Intensive Care Unit Director, returned to lead the clinical student program. Debra Harvey and Brenda Wolf, both CNAs in the Pediatrics and Medical Unit, also provided instruction under the guidance of Shannon Adams, MSN, RN, Medical/Surgical Unit director.
The Beaufort Memorial clinical rotation was the first time that students were allowed to complete the program in a hospital. Previously, the state only allowed students to intern in a long-term care facility.
“I have a lot more confidence because I’ve had the experience of being here,” said senior Aniyah Williams.
The health care program provides a pathway for students in Beaufort County Schools to begin learning the foundations of careers in the medical field, where there are high demands for a qualified workforce.
Students are taught by South Carolina-certified career and technical education (CTE) instructors and may earn the South Carolina Certified Nursing Assistant credential.
On the final day of the clinical rotation, a small ceremony was held at Beaufort Memorial to recognize the students and their achievements. Each received a certificate, a graduation honor cord and offers of employment at Beaufort Memorial upon successful completion of the CNA exam.
All the students passed the exam; four of them accepted employment and will begin June 6. Williams and Pryor declined the full-time employment offers, as they have joined the U.S. Navy.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for these students,” said Lillie Sheppard who is the student intern coordinator at Beaufort Memorial.
Sheppard encourages parents to speak with their children about the program benefits. “Motivate your children. Push them to think outside of what’s in front of them, and let them know there are opportunities out there.”
Any Beaufort County students interested in the program should speak with their school counselors.