CFCC Nursing and Emergency Medical Service Students Assist NHRMC with COVID-19 Vaccination Efforts

WILMINGTON, NC — Cape Fear Community College’s Advanced EMT, Paramedic, and Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) students are assisting New Hanover Regional Medical Center in its COVID-19 vaccination efforts.

“I am proud CFCC students have the opportunity to get involved,” said Associate Degree Nursing Instructor Heather Caldwell. “Knowing that NHRMC has sought out our students to assist with vaccinations makes me proud to be an educator at CFCC. Our students are well-prepared to help with this important effort.”

“I feel a great sense of pride in being able to help our community in such a monumental way. This long-awaited vaccine is one of the first steps towards achieving normalcy,” said CFCC Associate Degree Nursing student Marco Perez.

The vaccine clinic is allowing students to see first-hand how their work affects the lives of others. “Some asked to have their picture taken as they received the vaccine to show their loved ones, and that put a big smile on my face,” said Perez. “This is such a rewarding and unforgettable experience, and I thank my instructor for giving us this opportunity.”

Emergency Medical Service (EMS) student Mandy Cowie volunteers at the clinic giving pre-vaccination interviews to elderly patients who opt to use the curbside service. “I felt so privileged to be asked to assist. This is something we never expected to happen, but it’s a great way for us to strengthen our skills and help keep our community healthy.”

Chip Munna, CFCC’s Emergency Medical Science program director, says the partnership between CFCC and NHRMC is a win-win. “Working with NHRMC’s professionals in this setting provides a tremendous learning opportunity for our students. EMS is a dynamic profession, and our students are learning that they truly must be ready for anything.”

“This is a life-changing experience for students. It’s an opportunity for them to volunteer in the community and to experience how health care professionals impact the communities they serve,” said Caldwell. “This is true service-learning.”

For more information regarding vaccinations, visit nhcgov.com/475/COVID-19-Vaccine .

To learn more about CFCC’s healthcare programs visit cfcc.edu/healthsciences .