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HOYA 1 March Article

March 04, 2026

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HOYA Monthly Update – February Highlights

February was a busy and exciting month for our HOYA students as they completed our Emergency Care and Human Development units and began diving into Mental Health.

Emergency Care Unit

Students gained hands-on knowledge and practical skills related to a variety of emergency situations. They learned how to recognize and respond appropriately to:

1. Cardiac arrest and respiratory arrest
2. Choking emergencies
3. Falls
4. Bleeding and hemorrhaging injuries

Signs and symptoms of a possible stroke and heart attack, along with appropriate care for both

1. Seizures
2. Epistaxis (nosebleeds)
3. Syncopal (fainting) episodes
4. Various types of shock

Through case scenarios and skill practice, students strengthened their confidence in staying calm, assessing situations quickly, and providing safe, effective care in high-stress emergencies.

Human Needs and Development

In addition to emergency care, students explored the foundations of patient-centered care by studying:

1. A Theory of Human Motivation and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
2. Holistic care and treating the whole person
3. Stages of growth and development across the lifespan
4. Developmental disabilities and appropriate caregiving approaches

This unit helped students better understand how physical, emotional, social, and developmental factors all influence patient care.

Mental Health Unit

We have recently begun our Mental Health unit, where students are learning about:

1. Common mental health conditions
2. Signs and symptoms
3. Defense mechanisms
4. Treatment options
5. Therapeutic communication strategies

Students also presented informative posters on a variety of mental health disorders, including:

1. Schizophrenia
2. Anxiety disorder
3. Major depressive disorder
4. Post-traumatic stress disorder
5. Bipolar disorder

The students did an excellent job presenting and engaging in meaningful class discussions about improving patient communication.

Guest Speakers

We were fortunate to have a Registered Nurse, BSN, visit our class in February, with experience in emergency medicine, intensive care, and family birth. She shared real-world insight into nursing practice, critical thinking in high-acuity settings, and different pathways within the nursing profession.

In March, we welcomed a Fire Marshal and Deputy Chief who spoke to students about how to become a firefighter/paramedic and the important role emergency responders play in community safety. Students were also given a tour of the local fire station, providing valuable exposure to careers in fire and emergency medical services.

Clinical Update

Clinicals continue every Thursday and Friday. Students are doing an outstanding job advancing their hands-on skills, professionalism, and communication strategies in real healthcare settings. It is wonderful to see their confidence and competence grow each week.

Looking Ahead

In the coming weeks, we will begin learning about restorative care and special care skills related to:

1. Surgical care
2. Cardiac monitoring
3. Artificial airways
4. Mechanical ventilation
5. Chest tubes

We are looking forward to another month of growth, learning, and skill development as our HOYA students continue building a strong foundation for future careers in healthcare.