What Is It Like Being a Nurse at Falcon Camp?
Ask Nurse Jackie!
Being a camp nurse is a tough job, but it’s also very rewarding and fun! Camp nursing allows for a much needed break from the “real world” and daily stresses of my full-time job. This does not mean, however, that it is easy and carefree. The time I spend at camp without many of the luxuries of modern technology is food for my soul!
As the camp nurse, I am responsible for overseeing all campers’ and counselors’ health needs, both acute and chronic. I administer all medications prescribed to campers and counselors by their physicians. I triage any illness/injury that occurs by determining if I can treat the illness/injury at camp within my scope of practice and inside my standing orders, or if I need to send the camper/counselor out to a higher level of care. This can be stressful at times because I am making this decision on my own. If in doubt, I will phone conference with Lynne, the Health Director, and get her input on the situation.
During the day I administer medications at breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack time. I am available by walkie-talkie most other times throughout the day. I like to get out into camp, visit the horses, watch kids shoot at riflery practice, get some sun at the waterfront or listen to the kids practicing their instruments during music time. I like to keep myself busy, so you may find me in the office helping Dave, doing dishes with Shirley, mucking stalls for Pam, occupying baby Noa for Tali or helping Nici with the schedule. Maybe next summer Olan and Cody will let me in on a few maintenance projects!
On occasion I provide extra support to a camper who is missing their parent or guardian. Sometimes all a camper needs is a listening ear, or a place to sit in front of the fan and cool off for 10 minutes, or a “mom hug”. These are often the easiest visits of my day.
Through the years I have been able to watch my own children grow as campers and watch their camp experience from the sidelines. My oldest just completed his CIT (counselor-in-training) year and it was so cool to see him have so much fun! I am thankful that I have been able to be a part of their camp experience while I work.
Best,
Nurse Jackie
