MEPN & Direct Patient Care

Hello Everyone!

I'm an undergrad who will graduate with a degree in something other than nursing. I'm hoping to get into a direct-entry program, but lack the experience. I have a few questions, and I hope all you nurses out there can help me, and other hopefuls, out.

What is direct-patient care?
What is/are the best way(s) for a non-nurse to gain that sort of experience?
Does volunteering at a hospital count as direct patient care?

Thank you all for taking the time to read this thread!