Nurse leaders Anna Van Loon MSN-ED, RNC-OB, C-EFM, OB-E, PMH-C, Assistant Nurse Manager, and Gigi Gaytan, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, CNL, Magnet Program Director, ventured out to two local schools, Windsor High School and Piner High School, for Career Connections Days. Representing Kaiser Permanente, they showcased the many rewarding career opportunities in healthcare while providing hands-on education and simulations for students to experience.
Students had the opportunity to perform chest compressions and learn what CPR is truly like, making for an engaging and memorable lesson. Anna and Gigi also shared information about student internship opportunities and the educational pathways required for various healthcare careers.
Both schools also participated in the annual Nurse Camp, sponsored by the Voice of Nursing (VON) Council. Each school sent 25 students to KP Santa Rosa for a day-long educational session filled with interactive simulations, including newborn delivery, pediatric choking, adult stroke, adult code blue, and a perioperative activity where students can use robotic surgical equipment.
The fun of the day didn’t end there! Students loved putting on sterile PPE — many even snapped selfies with their friends dressed in surgical gear. The excitement and awe were palpable as they used the pediatric vein finder to locate their own veins and were amazed to see how well they “washed” their hands under blue light, learning the importance of thorough hand hygiene. Each of these activities was a perfect blend of fun and learning — developed by the dedicated VON Core Council members.
This annual tradition has become an inspiring partnership between KP Santa Rosa nurses and the next generation of healthcare professionals. Both students and staff describe it as one of the most fulfilling opportunities to connect with the community and rediscover the “why” behind a career in healthcare.
These community outreach activities reflect KP Santa Rosa’s commitment to building the nursing pipeline and supporting the future of the profession.