The Prince George’s Community College Nursing Program continues to lead with innovation, blending academic excellence, student wellness, and meaningful community engagement. Three impactful initiatives implemented at the College were displayed as part of a poster presentation at the Maryland Association of Associate Degree Nursing (MAADND) Conference. Here is what faculty members Jennifer Madkins, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM, CNE; Dr. Danielle Weller-Roche, DNP, MSN-ED, RN, CCM; and Loren Taylor, MSN, RN, CEN, CNE-cl shared.
Learning Enhances Clinical Readiness
Inspired by the Organization for Associate Degree Nursing (OADN) Conference, PGCC nursing faculty implemented a range of active learning strategies across lectures, labs, and clinical settings. These included case-based learning, flipped classrooms, gamified activities, simulation, group collaboration, and NCLEX Next Gen-style questioning. Results show measurable improvement in student engagement, clinical reasoning, and exam performance, with faculty reporting higher levels of preparedness and participation.
Wellness Room Supports Finals Week Success
A relaxation room was introduced to address student stress during finals week, providing students a peaceful retreat with calming music, aromatherapy, mindfulness tools, and refreshments. Students shared that the space helped reduce anxiety and improve focus. Encouraged by the positive feedback, the nursing department plans to expand the initiative throughout the semester and explore wellness resources for faculty.
Community-Based Clinicals Promote Hands-on Learning and Retention
As part of a targeted student retention effort, PGCC launched a unique community-based clinical experience in fall 2024. Eleven nursing students from all program levels and four faculty members partnered with the local health department to support a flu vaccine clinic at a community church. Students engaged in age-appropriate clinical roles—from registering patients to administering vaccines and providing health education—while applying their classroom knowledge in a real-world setting.
This innovative clinical opportunity provided meaningful practice and promoted confidence, professional growth, and a deeper commitment to community health. Faculty will continue to evaluate long-term effects on student retention and completion over the next three semesters.
Together, these initiatives reflect the PGCC Nursing Department’s ongoing commitment to student-centered education, prioritizing critical thinking, emotional well-being, hands-on learning, and meaningful community impact.