LECOM Health Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Title: Creating Meaningful Moments: Health Education Initiatives at LNR
Student Interns:
Omar Al Mhtachem
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Preceptor:
Elizabeth A. Ferrer, PhD
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Community Preceptor:
Tonya Moyer, NHA
LECOM Institute for Successful Living
Community Site:
LECOM Health Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (LNR) is a skilled nursing facility located in Erie, PA. The facility offers a welcoming environment and provides both long-term care and short-term services, including orthopedic care and chronic disease management. It is also supported by a 24/7 respiratory therapy team with a dedicated pulmonary specialist. LNR aims to deliver personalized care that supports residents throughout their recovery and daily living.
Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern developed projects that focused on both mental and physical well‑being. Many initiatives were implemented to promote oral health: The intern gave a presentation on oral health, handed out informational flyers, set up a teeth‑cleaning activity, and held a wind‑up chattering‑teeth race. To foster a sense of community, the intern organized a grand singing competition, during which the residents had a chance to show off their talent and encourage each other. The event was followed by a trophy award ceremony in which residents were recognized and celebrated. These activities encouraged residents to stay active, be proactive in their health, boost their spirits, and interact with one another.
Reflections
“The Bridging the Gaps experience significantly deepened my appreciation of holistic patient care. Engaging with the residents in various activities and seeing them go about their everyday lives showed me the importance of addressing mental and physical well‑being together. Moreover, looking back, I think the opportunity enhanced my communication skills and highlighted the importance of teamwork in healthcare. Truly, sometimes all people need is someone to listen.”
Omar Al Mhtachem