Nursing Volunteers
Due to the nature of HIV infection, a round-the-clock staff of nursing professionals is required to assure the safety of campers and staff. There are a minimum of two on-duty registered nurses on each 8 hour shift, including overnight. These nurses are volunteers and come to Camp Safe Haven from many renowned hospitals in the United States.
Camp nurses are an integral part of the overall camp experiences. They are encouraged to participate in activities and allow the campers to get to know them as individuals. The nursing volunteer experience is a coveted one with many nurses returning year after year, many giving up vacation time to enjoy this experience.
Unlike most camps, which may have one nurse on duty for the entire camp program, Safe haven believes that more hands make the work lighter for everyone. We have what we believe is one of the highest nurse to camper ratios in the field. This allows not only for greater sensitivity of care, but also allows for nurses to have quality time with the campers, both within the setting of the nurses’ station and during participation in camp activities.
Primary responsibilities include:
- Dispensing medications according to Doctor’s orders
- Basic care (minor injuries, scratches, etc.)
- General oversight including blood pressure, temperature, and general health
All nurses are required to hold a current license in the state in which the camp is being held (Massachusetts or North Carolina) or from a state that is reciprocal. A temporary license may be acquired, and Safe Haven will forward information for this process if needed. We are unable to accept nurses from outside the United States, unless they hold a state license or a reciprocal.
Student nurses are welcome. While unable to dispense medications, they will assist the nursing staff and participate in camp activities.
If you are interesting in becoming a camp nurse, please contact Linda Fasci, Nursing Director at linda@safehavenproject.org.