WVU Medicine's 'Children's Hosptial Summit' draws nurses from across the state for training to enhance their care

Nov. 12—dbeard MORGANTOWN — Nurses and nursing students from across the state came to WVU on Tuesdays for the WVU Medicine Children's "Children's Hospital Summit."

Anne Humberson, WVUMC clinical preceptor of Surgical Services said the idea was to use the Center of Excellence to provide education for nurses and others across the state.

A variety of presenters spoke on such topics as pediatric trauma, human trafficking, identifying child abuse, pediatric emergencies, obstetric emergencies, and even how to properly install a car seat.

"We hope they walk away with stronger assessment skills, a better understanding of safety for patients that are going to be in their care, " she said.

The 91 attendees came not just from WVU Medicine but other facilities and health systems, she said.

"Our goal is to make sure we reach those that are in further corners of the state that have lesser access to healthcare, and provide them education." These nurses will be able to better help the families and children under their care.

Ashelee Swiger, a registered nurse at WVUMC, was one of the attendees.

"I came here to continue my education, to see if there's anything I can do as a bedside nurse to improve my practice, " she said. A chief goal was to improve her assessment skills on children who might be going through physical or pyscho-social traumatic experiences.

"I've learned quite a few things that I'll bring to my bedside and teach my other co-workers, " she said.