“One of the most common areas for pressure injuries is the heel,” says GLCA Nursing Instructor Christine Fultz, holding up a realistic skin model of a foot showing various stages of pressure wounds. Fultz explains pressure injuries, also known as bed sores, can lead to serious infections if not identified early.
“This is why repositioning and frequent skin checks are so important,” she tells the class. “You’re the ones who will catch this first.”
Thanks to a grant from the Lafayette Breakfast Optimist Club, students have simulation models, materials and training equipment specific to pressure injuries. Fultz says these types of wounds represent a significant challenge in healthcare—particularly among elderly and immobile patients. According to the National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel, about 2.5 million individuals develop these injuries each year in the U.S., leading to pain, complications and higher medical costs.
“Knowing what pressure sores are and how they develop is extremely important as a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant),” says McCutcheon High School senior Avarey Benker. “They can lead to serious infection and even be fatal. The model helped us by letting us visualize how each stage looks as it progresses.”
Classmate Sofia Britton, a junior at Harrison High School, says the models really help them see how their actions—or inaction—can directly affect patient care.
“The models helped us clearly see the severity of each stage. It gave us a better idea of what we might encounter during clinicals, not just what we read in textbooks,” Sofia says.
With around 50 students enrolled in the year-long CNA program, Fultz said the grant helps provide critical experience that sets students apart early in their healthcare careers. Thanks to the hands-on materials, students like Sofia and Avarey are better prepared to care for future patients and to make a difference in preventing a serious healthcare concern.