The Nightingale Experience: Inspiring Future Nurses Across Western Kansas

On September 4, 2025, HaysMed and Fort Hays State University (FHSU) welcomed high school students from area high schools including Russell, Colby, and Scott City to campus for this year’s Nightingale Experience, a hands-on event designed to spark interest in nursing careers and provide a behind-the-scenes look at healthcare in action.

Named after Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, the experience offers students a unique opportunity to explore both the academic and clinical sides of the profession. The day began at HaysMed, where students participated in immersive rotations through key departments including Labor & Delivery, the Cath Lab, Critical Care Progressive Unit (CPCU), Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Operating Room (OR), Special Nurse Services, Emergency Room (ER), Medical Oncology, and Acute Care.

Throughout the day, students shadow nurses, providers, and physicians to ask questions, and gain real-world insight into the diverse roles nurses play in patient care. From high-tech procedures to compassionate bedside care, the experience showcases the depth and impact of the nursing profession. The day ended at FHSU, where students tour classrooms and simulation labs, meet nursing faculty, and learn about the educational path to becoming a nurse.

Special thanks to the FHSU nursing faculty, the HaysMed education team, and all the clinical units who generously shared their time and expertise. Their dedication helps inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.

The Nightingale Experience continues to be a powerful way to connect students with the heart of healthcare, and to show them that a career in nursing is not only possible, but deeply rewarding.