Carroll College Student Nurses Association Attends Simulated Birth, Gives to Florence Crittenton Home

February 26, 2009

Carroll College nursing students used a simulation demonstration as a fundraising opportunity for the Florence Crittenton Home of Helena.  On Monday Feb. 23 the Carroll College Student Nurses Association hosted a baby shower for Noelle, the Nursing Department's Maternal & Neonatal Birthing Simulator. 

Just like any other baby shower, guests brought presents, played games and ate cake. However, guests at this shower had the opportunity to witness the birth and the gifts won't stay with Noelle or her new baby girl Molly (named at the shower). All the gifts and money gathered were donated to Florence Crittenton.  

Michele Herrington, development director from Florence Crittenton, said the simulated birth was "quite a learning experience.  I was awestruck by all the simulation mannequins that range from infant to child to adult.  Carroll students get great experiences before they start on real patients." 
 
The student nurses asked Florence Crittenton home to make a "wish list" so that guests of the baby shower could help fulfill the needs of young mothers. "These gifts are extremely meaningful to our girls, many of whom are starting out in their new life with very little support from the outside world.  The Carroll nurses' gifts show that people care about them and their babies." 

A great number of gifts were donated including bibs, newborn and preemie clothes, toddler shoes, crib sheets, and disposable diapers. 

"This was a fun celebration for the Nursing department centered on Noelle and an opportunity to contribute to Florence Crittenton Home," said nursing department professor, Dr. Jennifer Elison. 

The Carroll College Student Nurses Association is the college chapter for the state and national Student Nurses' Association.  CCSNA brings students together to help further the growth of nursing, providing opportunities for education, experience, service and fellowship.