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Published on November 21, 2023

Program gives high school students behind-the-scenes look at health care careers

High school students interested in pursuing a health care career recently got a behind-the-scenes learning experience at Tidelands Health.

Students don protective gear in the operating room as they practice with the robotics assisted surgery tools.The not-for-profit health system welcomed 24 juniors and seniors from Georgetown, Horry and Williamsburg counties at Tidelands Georgetown Memorial Hospital and Tidelands Waccamaw Community Hospital for the Nurses are Extraordinary program.

In addition to touring the hospitals, the students learned from hands-on experiences, including swaddling a baby manikin, practicing CPR, donning protective suits used in operating rooms and more. Georgetown County Fire & EMS also provided lessons and a tour of a medic unit.

“What better way to learn about health care careers than to be behind-the-scenes in our hospitals,” said Caitlyn Krask, manager of student and volunteer programs at Tidelands Health. “Students really enjoy the up-close experience offered through our Nurses are Extraordinary program. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with these driven young students as they pursue their health care careers.”

Students applied to participate in the day-long program, which is open to high school juniors and seniors. As part of the application process, students submitted an essay and reference letters.

Shelly Laird talks with students in a hospital patient room.“Our health care professionals, who are so passionate about taking care of patients, enjoy the opportunity to share their passion with future health care professionals,” said Ashley Capps, vice president of operations and chief nursing officer at Tidelands Health. “Our Nurses are Extraordinary program is just one way we are helping reach promising health care workers and ignite their passion to pursue careers in the in-demand health care field.”

Tidelands Health offers several programs for students to learn alongside team members and behind the scenes, including mentorship and shadowing opportunities. In addition, Tidelands Health serves as the health sciences pathway leader at the annual Pathways 2 Possibilities interactive career expo in Myrtle Beach presented by Frances P. Bunnelle Foundation.

Learn more about opportunities for students here.

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Tidelands Health, in collaboration with MUSC Health, is the region’s largest health care provider, serving the Carolinas at four hospitals and more than 70 outpatient locations. More than 2,500 employee, physician and volunteer partners work side by side with our communities to transform the health of our region – promoting wellness, preventing illness, encouraging recovery and restoring health.