Emergency department nurses receive trauma training

Thanks to a $3,500 grant from WomenConnected, the Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) is now being offered across all three campuses. This year alone, 16 emergency department nurses will receive specialized training.

The Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) is now being offered across all three ProHealth Care hospital campuses.

In the past, ProHealth has relied upon openings at other facilities to participate in the required training and achieve certification. The new on-site program allows for more course options and ensures the staff is compliant. The grant covers the cost of the course materials and supports the training of two instructor candidates.

“Our goal is to have all ProHealth Care emergency department nurses trained in the course,” explains Sherry Berg, emergency department manager. “As we gain momentum, we will have a consistent approach to caring for trauma patients at our hospitals.”

Michelle Hackett, RN and trauma program manager, adds, “Training is specialized to PHC policies and workflow. This leads to retention of the information because the nurses can put the skills directly to use. We will be offering renewal classes to keep our staff current. That way, they won’t need to take the full course again – a huge staff satisfier.

According to Erika Moriarty, RN and TNCC instructor, staff members are excited about this opportunity. “The interest in TNCC is huge among the nurses. Many of them are eager to complete the course or renew their skills. Plus, a younger generation of nurses is starting. Because we see a range of trauma, they will be better prepared to care for patients. I am a huge supporter of this learning opportunity and cannot wait to instruct the next group in September.”

Participants report that the class improves their level of comfort and confidence in the trauma assessment process. Said one recently trained nurse, “I really benefited from the course. It is a great standardized way to assess a patient, especially if they’re non-communicative or we have very little information. The course teaches us to look, listen and feel in order to make the best assessment possible.”

Thanks, WomenConnected, for supporting continuing education opportunities for emergency room nurses so they can provide the best care possible to patients.

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