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Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) Nursing Students Learn Vital Skills at Franke Tobey Jones

By Christine Hall, FTJ Senior Director of Marketing and PR

Two groups of PLU nursing students have recently spent several weeks at Franke Tobey Jones honing their skills and working one-on-one with our clinical teams and residents.  These students are part of the ABSN program, which is an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.  It’s essentially a fast-track option to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree in less time than a traditional program.  This program is 16 months in length and includes intense coursework plus extensive clinical experience.

“I’m glad I did my first clinical rotation as a student nurse at Franke Tobey Jones,” says student J.P.  “It affirmed my choice of nursing as a profession. I met several inspirational nurses, staff and residents. I learned from the opportunity to ask nurses questions. Listening to their opinion regarding characteristics that make nurses good at their job was especially helpful. I appreciate their time. I appreciate the CNAs who helped train me in basic nursing care.”

Just a few of the core competencies of this program include

• Clinical Judgment and Reasoning: The ability to make sound decisions based on patient assessment and critical thinking.
• Communication: Effective communication with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Working effectively with interdisciplinary healthcare professionals.
• Leadership: Demonstrating leadership qualities in patient care and team settings.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Incorporating research findings into patient care.
• Quality Improvement: Contributing to the enhancement of healthcare delivery.
• Safety: Prioritizing patient safety in all aspects of care.
• Informatics: Utilizing technology to support nursing practice.

“It is always such a delight to get a chance to meet and work with the PLU students for their clinical experience here at FTJ,” says Kristina Atkins, FTJ Skilled Nursing Resident Supervisor.  “They are so eager to jump in and learn all aspects of nursing and the residents are so thrilled when they are here. The future of healthcare is in great hands with these soon to be nurses.”

Washington State and the entire county faces a significant shortage of nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) which is primarily driven by several factors:

• Aging Population which increases the demand for healthcare services, including nursing care, increases.
• The prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s requires ongoing care, often provided by nurses and CNAs.
• Many nurses are nearing retirement age, contributing to a decline in the workforce.
• Nursing can be a demanding profession, and many nurses are seeking better work-life balance, which can lead to turnover.

Because of this need, Franke Tobey Jones is always thrilled to have the opportunity to help these bright and enthusiastic students achieve their nursing degrees!

When asked what her nursing student group enjoyed about their experience at Franke Tobey Jones, Rosa Crumpton, PLU Nursing Professor, said “Our group enjoyed learning from all of the staff. We appreciated the CNAs showing our students how to help with the residents’ ADLs (Activities of Daily Living). We also enjoyed the interdisciplinary care and opportunities to observe nurses, therapists and staff. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to complete our first clinical rotation here.”

“I had an exceptional experience working with the staff at Franke Toby Jones,” commented PLU Nursing Professor Cecily Stone.  “From the clinical team to the administrative staff, everyone was incredibly supportive, professional, and committed to excellence. The level of care and attention provided by the clinical staff was outstanding, and the administrative team ensured that everything ran smoothly and efficiently. The facility itself is beautiful, offering a welcoming and comfortable environment that enhances the overall experience. It’s been a privilege to collaborate with such a dedicated team, and I look forward to continuing our great partnership.”

Thank you to the Pacific Lutheran University Nursing Program students and professors, as well as our FTJ Clinical Team for providing this program of collaboration!