Pueblo -- The clinical skills laboratory in the Nursing Department at Colorado State University - Pueblo has received a donation of state-of-the-art oxygen monitoring equipment and additional educational resources valued at more than $5,000 thanks to a national collaboration of two nursing associations and a leading healthcare technology manufacturer.

The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) and the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE) have partnered with Nellcor to donate advanced-technology Nellcor® pulse oximeters and educational resources to 125 schools of nursing in 48 states, the District of Columbia and U.S. Virgin Islands.

The donation provides Nellcor N-395 Pulse Oximeters and educational materials to schools selected by AACN and AONE. CSU-Pueblo also receives access to the expertise of Nellcor's field-based team of hospital clinical consultants. Pulse oximeters are routinely used in critical care units and increasingly in many other patient care areas. Pulse oximeters offer a cost-effective way to measure a patient's heart rate and the amount of oxygen in the blood non-invasively, that is, without needing to pierce the skin.

According to Rhonda Johnston, chair of CSU-Pueblo's Nursing department, the department wants to be the bridge between the student and the ever-changing profession of nursing, whether the student is new to the field or a practicing Registered Nurse.

"State-of-the-art equipment is vital for our program in order to give the students hands-on experience with the equipment they will be using in the areas they will be working," said Johnston.

Johnston said small class sizes ensure personal attention and significant sharing with peers. A variety of teaching strategies are implemented and progress is closely monitored with one on one advising.

"At a time when the entire healthcare continuum is strapped for resources, generosity like Nellcor's is sorely needed," said AACN President Connie Barden, RN, MSN, CCRN, CCNS. "We were frankly overwhelmed by requests for technology and training materials and are pleased to accommodate 125 nursing programs with this initial donation. Incorporating sophisticated technology into the core education of new nurses will help ensure the safety and efficacy of nursing care."

"This program is a classic demonstration of how professional organizations and industry can work together to create a lasting impact," commented AONE President Rita Turley, MS, RN. "Nellcor's generous support of education and technology will impact an entire generation of nurses, and the countless patients for whom they care over the course of their careers."

For more information on the donation or the nursing program visit the web site at http://ceeps.colostate-pueblo.edu/nursing or call 719-549-2871.

Colorado State University - Pueblo is a regional, comprehensive university emphasizing professional, career-oriented, and applied programs. Displaying excellence in teaching, celebrating diversity, and engaging in service and outreach, CSU-Pueblo is distinguished by access, opportunity, and the overall quality of services provided to its students.