Maricopa hospital a classroom for GCU students

Students from the most-attended university campus in Phoenix are gaining invaluable clinical experience here in Maricopa. 

Grand Canyon University and Exceptional Community Hospital joined forces to provide nursing students with a summer real-world experience. 

Five GCU upperclassmen are assigned to the Maricopa hospital, where they’re amid six weeks of hands-on learning. 

Paired with the hospital’s licensed nursing team, students will fulfill credit requirements by working at least one 12-hour shift per week. 

Students are tasked with distributing medicine, taking vitals and taking the patients on walks. 

“They can pretty much do the beginnings of patient care,” said Dietra McCroy, GCU’s executive director of nursing services. “We are hoping to add more clinical rotations in the future.”  

McCroy said working in a bedroom community is beneficial to students who can get a front row seat to the in-patient and emergency departments.  

The hospital’s location in Maricopa is unique, McCroy said. 

“It’s a benefit for the students because they see a rural population,” she said. “If there’s a car accident…they will be able to witness those decisions being made on the spot.”  

Annie Giagni, who currently serves as the interim chief nursing officer, stressed the importance of real-world experience and cooperation for budding nurses. 

“Hands-on is the best way to learn,” Giagni said. “If we know something unique is in the ER, we can grab [the students] and get them exposure and experience that they need in the field.” 

Although the hospital has yet to celebrate its second birthday, its tight-knit medical team is already placing emphasis on education and collaboration with local universities.  

“We are a very small hospital, but it’s a team effort,” she said. “Every nurse that sits on the floor has the chance to educate.”  

From patients to practitioners, a team-oriented environment aims to foster a supportive atmosphere. 

With almost a decade of nursing experience herself, Giagni plays a direct role in the clinical process, offering her expertise and support to the soon-to-be nurses.   

“All of my staff love to teach,” Giagni said. “The students get to have their practical hours at the bedside.” 

Partners both academic and medical said they hope to expand the program in the future.  

“It’s been a wonderful experience having the students here,” Giagni said. “It feels like yesterday that I was a student. I want to be able to offer that same level of experience and education to the future generations along the way.”