April 22, 2009: CGH hosted the first-ever Clinical Carnival Skills Fair on April 22-23, 2009. RNs, LPNs, CNAs, and other clinical staff took advantage of the opportunity to complete all of their annual competencies with the “one-stop shopping” convenience of the Clinical Carnival. A total of over 60 staff members attended the event.

There were a total of 15 booths for staff to visit, each providing several opportunities to test and demonstrate clinical skills. Booths included were: Emergency, Mock Codes, Radiology, Equipment Usage, Wound Care, Diabetes Education, OB Equipment, Patient Safety, Bedside Testing & Lifts, Bundles and Hospital Policies. Some of the skills practiced included: chest tube insertion, defibrillators, IV pumps, and Foley catheter insertion, to name a few. The Grants Fire Department was also onsite to demonstrate proper procedure when using backboards and cervical collars during patient transfers.

Cibola General Hospital places a strong emphasis on developing and maintaining staff skills and talents through a diverse array of educational opportunities. The Clinical Carnival Skills Fair allows the professional, competent staff at the hospital, to reaffirm skills and stay up-to-date on the latest advances in medicine. The hospital plans to make the Clinical Carnival an annual event.