When Mount Saint Mary College nursing majors headed to the Children’s Discovery Museum in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. recently, it wasn’t the first time they had taught young children about how doctors and nurses heal their patients – but it was one of the most memorable for the little ones.
The patients, of course, were the children’s very own stuffed animals.
Spearheaded by Linda Kelly, associate professor of Nursing, the Fuzzy Friends Clinic featured Mount students demonstrating how doctors and nurses use stethoscopes, bandages, blood pressure cuffs, and more to keep people happy and healthy.
Kelly noted that an abundance of fuzzy patients, along with their families, attended the event. Nine of the Mount’s Nursing students served as “Fuzzy Friends Ambassadors” during the mobile clinic at the museum.
“It was a great community event where students interacted with young children, their parents or caregivers, and the museum staff,” said Kelly. “A wonderful time was had by all, and the patients left with improved health and hugs.”
The Mount has hosted several Fuzzy Friends Clinics throughout Orange County and beyond, including on the college’s campus.
The Mount’s service-focused approach to education goes hand-in-hand with helping professions like Nursing, Kelly noted. Mount Nursing students enjoy state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical relationships with dozens of area hospitals. The Mount’s passionate faculty are dedicated to the success of both their undergraduate and graduate students.