barbara packard

I teach parents or caregivers how to massage infants up to 1 year old. The classes are six sessions long, and cover infant massage as put together by Vimala McClure. This type of infant massage may improve relaxation, improving sleep patterns, give relief of colic and tension, stimulates the body systems and development, but most important is a powerful communication between baby and parents.

Support families during childbirth. This includes two prenatal visits with the family, providing education and helping them make a birth plan. I provide support at home, prior to going to hospital or birth center, or meet clients at their facility of choice. I stay with parents throughout labor, regardless of the length. I offer Mom comfort and pain relief measures, and will be an advocate for her in the health care system.

I worked as a volunteer at the St. Petersburg Free Clinic for four years following my graduation from nursing school,. Our clinic served a large adult uninsured and homeless population. I did intake interviews, took vital signs, did urinalysis, EKG, and gave vaccine injections. I provided case management at discharge, making sure that clients were able to see volunteer specialists and and were able to acquire the proper medications, either through a free medication program, or at reduced price. The St. Petersburg Free Clinic is not a government agency, but is supported by fund raising and donations of money and supplies throughout the year. It is associated with a food bank and women's shelter, and provides valuable care for the community.

Activities and Societies: Phi Theta Kappa Academic Honor Society