WINTERSVILLE - Senior nursing students from the Franciscan University of Steubenville made a stop at Wintersville Elementary School recently to teach fourth-grade pupils the basics of first aid.
The program, sponsored by the American Red Cross Jefferson County Chapter, continued for four weeks and included various first aid techniques.
Margie VanKirk of the Red Cross said the program covered a different topic each week.
"The first week, we teach the pupils what to do if they see an accident, how to call for help in the situation and also how to recognize an emergency," she said. "The second week is dedicated to good hand washing hygiene and proper handwashing techniques as well as fire emergencies. During week three, the students learn what to do if they have an animal bite, bruises and fractures or broken bones, and CPR basics are taught the fourth week."
Students from the university participating included Katie Hallenbeck, Rachel Rinn and Rebecca Jordan.
"As a part of our public health class, we try to get out in the community and promote healthy lifestyles," Hallenbeck said. "We have done presentations at Wintersville Elementary, Bishop John King Mussio elementaries, St. Francis Elementary and Stanton Elementary."
Hallenbeck also explained that other members of the class are working with different organizations.
"Some of our classmates have been working with hospice, school and parish nurses and even some bioterrorism nurses," she said.
VanKirk noted the program is open to all elementary schools in the county.
"We have had seven county schools contact us about the program so far this year," she said. "The university students have helped out with four of them. We will get volunteers to finish out the other three."
Those interested in volunteering with the program can contact the local Red Cross at (740) 264-7244.
(Looman can be contacted at jlooman@heraldstaronline.com.)
