Nurses need constant skills training to stay at the top of their profession. It’s crucial to provide excellent patient care. For Ashley Wray, a registered nurse at Bon Secours St. Francis Health System, the hands-on aspect of training is the most important.

“If someone is watching CPR training, they may not realize how much force and depth is needed. You have to keep the blood circulating while a patient is down,” Ashley says. “I need to know the correct depth and timing of compressions to provide the best outcome for the patient. Being able to safely practice is beneficial to keeping those skills sharp.”

Donor support of nursing education helps nurses like Ashley provide outstanding patient care. They can train on Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) simulation equipment. ACLS stabilizes critical adult patients who may have suffered a life-threatening event. It can simulate cardiac arrest, acute coronary syndrome or stroke. PALS is for pediatric patients.

For Ashley, this valuable training was a literal lifesaver.

“Having the training has helped keep me up to date on what is needed,” she says. “When we did have a patient code in the department, I was able to confidently help with compressions and code based on ACLS protocols.”

Today, Ashley is grateful to donors for helping her live the mission of Bon Secours St. Francis.

“Thank you for making the simulation and courses for PALS and ACLS available for employees at St. Francis. Your giving has saved lives.”