Talk to middle schoolers RE: Nursing. Help!

[kellyo, LPN]

A classmate (ADN program) and I were asked to give a presentation to a group of middle schoolers about choosing nursing as a career. We're really excited because we can use the experience as part of our peds experience.

Any comments, suggestions or words of wisdom about speaking to this age group. Our instructor gave us a great resource, but we'd like to hear from those of you who have spoken to kids about nursing.

Thanks!

[purplemania, BSN, RN]

I would cover the importance of handwashing, of covering your face when you cough or sneeze and of not sharing food/drinks. I would discuss the importance of saving 911 for real emergencies. Also, preventive things like wiping up wet floors, not letting babies have toys smaller than toilet paper tube, not letting toddlers eat grapes or nuts or uncut hot dogs. Also talk about plastic bags and balloons being a danger. If you can get your hand on a dressing materials, they might want to practice. I got a wheelchair once for them to see how hard it is to get around. Crutches and an arm sling might help too.Don't forget drugs and smoking and pregnancy. Yep, this is the right age to start. The state/local health dept might have visual aids. Good luck.