Abilene, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – The medical field is notorious for its high barriers to entry. Students spend an enormous amount of time and money before they can cure the world’s ailments.for students of Abilene’s Premier High School, that path becomes a much more accessible target. With some guidance, these students can help donate blood for real.
“It means a lot to me because healthcare means a lot to me. Nurse Christine O’Shields, RN said.
O’Shields came to school in 2020 and worked as a nurse for 30 years before leaving the professional medical field to become the school’s campus nurse during the COVID-19 pandemic. She told her KTAB/KRBC that it was during that time that her program for medical assistants was born.
O’Shields says the program has become very important to her as she navigates through the pandemic. Because she was able to help young students make the career choices she made 30 years ago.
“It’s really rewarding to show them this direction in life,” said O’Shields.
The program started with just six students, but now has 12 graduates. O’Shields said she hopes that number will increase as her students are ready to enter the field as certified medical assistants or continue their medical education.
According to O’Shields, students are actually learning how to draw blood and interact with patients. As part of this training, they observe: Hendrick Regional Blood Center an expert blood donation on campus February 23 (Thursday) 9:00 am.
Students will not participate in the actual blood draw, but will observe the professionals and assist in running the drive if necessary.
