Over the past couple of weeks, I had an opportunity to work with such extraordinary people. Not only have they intensified my passion for nursing, but also have exposed me to the beauty of spirituality.
 
As a senior nursing student at Mount Saint Mary College, I was placed at the Newburgh Ministry as my community clinical rotation. Initially, I did not know what to expect, let alone what to do without a clinical instructor present. Fortunately, the volunteers and Newburgh Ministry staff supplied me with sufficient materials and ample confidence to succeed on my very first day. By the end of my six-week rotation, I was taking blood pressures and blood sugars, documenting efficiently, educating patients about preventative care, disease management, and/or medication treatment like a real Registered Nurse. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to enhance my nursing skills, however, I am more grateful for the opportunity I received to sit down and interact with a population at once foreign to me.
 
One of my job duties was to help patients complete their initial health form. Of the questions on the form was one that asks if the patient has health insurance. Many patients worriedly answer “no”. I cannot even begin to describe their sigh of relief when I reply, “its okay if you don’t”. This just proves to patients that we are not there to collect money, but we are there because we care and simply want to improve their well-being.
 
It has truly been an eye-opening experience working at the Newburgh Ministry. I am amazed and honored to have worked with physicians, registered nurses, language translators and the Newburgh Ministry staff who have exemplified true compassion for others. All I can really say is thank you and God Bless.
 
Vanessa Saravia