For nursing students, hands-on clinical experiences are a vital part of their journey to becoming healthcare professionals. At Penobscot Valley Hospital (PVH), students not only gain the technical skills they need but also experience the compassionate, team-oriented approach that makes PVH a standout institution for both learning and patient care. We spent some time talking with our newest cohort of students to hear what they have to say about PVH.
Answering the Call to Care
For many nursing students, the decision to enter healthcare is rooted in a deep desire to help others. Kaden, one of the students training at PVH, emphasized the importance of being able to deliver care across diverse medical fields. Maggie, another student, was drawn to the fast-paced environment of the emergency department, eager to make a difference in moments of crisis. Others, like Ruby, found inspiration in personal experiences, having spent so much time in hospitals with her four children that she realized she wanted to be on the other side—providing care rather than receiving it.
Learning in a Supportive Environment
The impact of hands-on learning at PVH has been profound for these students. Kaden noted that one of the most valuable lessons was learning to communicate effectively with patients, especially during difficult moments. Logan appreciated the thorough IV training she received, while Maggie emphasized how rewarding it was to build meaningful relationships with patients. Ruby highlighted something even more personal—the culture of respect at PVH, where everyone, from staff to patients, is treated equally.
The support from PVH staff has also made a lasting impression. “The nurses here don’t just let us watch,” Skye shared. “They get us involved. Jess has been amazing, and the whole team makes sure we are learning.” Killian agreed, adding that the staff is not only knowledgeable but also patient, ensuring that students receive the guidance they need to improve their skills.
A Culture of Teamwork and Individualized Care
One of the aspects that sets PVH apart from other healthcare facilities is the positive, team-driven atmosphere. “The nurses work much more as a team here compared to other places,” Kaden observed. “There’s just more positivity.” That sense of collaboration translates directly to patient care. Maggie noted that because PVH is a smaller hospital, patients receive more one-on-one attention, resulting in a higher level of individualized care.
Skye emphasized the hospital’s focus on education, saying, “Everyone here is so willing to teach and help—it’s always been a priority at this hospital.” That willingness to support extends not just to students, but to the patients as well. Ruby added, “The amount of support given to both staff and patients is amazing. The priority is always on patient care, and it shows.”
Preparing the Next Generation of Nurses
Beyond technical skills, PVH has helped students build confidence for their future careers. Skye credited the hospital with teaching her essential time management skills, while Ruby appreciated the way staff members introduced her to new experiences, ensuring she was always learning. “The patients here also play a role in our education,” she said. “They trust us and allow us to take care of them, which is an invaluable experience.”
A Message to the Community
After working in the hospital and learning from its experienced staff, these nursing students have a clear message for the community: PVH is a place where patients can trust they are in good hands. “Patients here receive truly individualized care,” Maggie said. “The staff works as a team, ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding treatment plans.” Skye echoed this sentiment, pointing out that many staff members have worked at PVH for years, fostering a close-knit, well-coordinated team.
Ruby also praised the hospital’s dedication to cleanliness and professionalism. “Compared to other institutions, the attention to cleanliness here is incredible. The entire atmosphere is positive, and I think patients can feel that.”
From a learning perspective and a patient care standpoint, Penobscot Valley Hospital continues to stand out as a place of excellence. With a dedicated team that prioritizes both education and compassionate care, PVH remains a cornerstone of the community—ensuring that both future nurses and current patients receive the very best.