NEWBURGH – On Friday, December 13, nearly 30 students of the Mount’s nurse practitioner program were recognized at a white coat ceremony, which reflected the transition from novice nurse to the professional nurse practitioner role.
The ceremony reflected the transition of the novice nurse to the professional nurse practitioner role. Nurse practitioners are advanced practice nurses who provide high quality healthcare services. They can diagnose, treat, and prescribe across a wide range of health problems.
According to Christine Berté, associate professor of Nursing, director of the graduate Nursing program, and chairperson of the college’s School of Nursing, Mount nurse practitioner graduates began their journey as registered nurses in a variety of settings and can now enter primary care practices, including family health and internal medicine. They may also practice in acute care settings, such as hospital positions and urgent care/fast track health access points.
“Coupled with the compassion and experience in nursing that they already possess, advanced practice nurses have become one of the most valued groups of healthcare providers in today’s society, and are continually making a significant impact on the nursing profession,” she explained.
Two students were recognized for excellence in their studies and skills: Sonya McMillan of Montgomery, N.Y. received the 2019 Sigma Award, and Alexandra Gavalo-Yacco of Carmel, N.Y. was presented with the Sr. Leona DeBoer Graduate Nursing Award.
Fr. Fluet closed out the ceremony with the Blessing of the Hands.
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