Pa. nurses teach the next generation of maternal and infant care

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Monday, March 23, 2026
Pa. nurses teach the next generation of maternal and infant care

BROOMALL, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- Shaykhia Washington and Brianna Vettese took their skills from the hospital room into the classroom, hoping their students will be the change the healthcare world needs.

Both are nurse educators with the Delaware County Intermediate Unit (DCIU) Practical Nursing Program.

The course, which lasts about one year, prepares students of all backgrounds to become a licensed practical nurse.

Washington and Vettese teach a course in obstetrics, which focuses on maternal and infant health during and after pregnancy.

Post-pandemic, the healthcare world continues to stare down a shortage of nurses. At the same time, they are fighting to keep infant and maternal mortality rates lower.

The nurse educators use their real-world skills to impart valuable lessons to students. They hope to build a sense of confidence and resiliency so these future nurses will persist through challenges and remain in the healthcare profession.

To learn more about the Delaware County Intermediate Unit (DCIU) Practical Nursing Program, visit their website.

A virtual open house will be held on Zoom on Tuesday April 7, 2026 from 5:00pm to 6:30pm.

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