Hospital ‘party’ program aimed at bringing awareness to teens
GUELPH – Guelph General Hospital has announced the launch of its PARTY (Prevent Alcohol and Risk-Related Trauma in Youth) program beginning this fall.
As part of its Level III trauma centre identification announced in March 2024, the hospital is expanding its commitment to injury prevention and community education by bringing this program to students in Grades 9 through 12.
Developed by the Centre for Injury Prevention at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, the PARTY program takes students on a powerful journey through the eyes of a trauma patient, officials say in a press release.
From the community through the emergency room doors, to inpatient care areas such as intensive care, rehabilitation and recovery, students witness the full scope of trauma care.
“With 90% of all injuries reported as both predictable and preventable, this program is designed to challenge the decisions young people make around alcohol, driving and risk-taking,” states a press release from Andrea Lucas, chief nursing executive at Guelph General Hospital.
“It is a real, emotional and often life-changing experience.”
Students meet professionals who see trauma every day, including local police officers, paramedics, emergency physicians, trauma nurses, respiratory therapists and rehabilitation specialists who share personal stories.
The initiative highlights the rich history of collaboration among emergency response services in the region, the release states.
“By reaching youth directly, preventable injuries and trauma admissions can be reduced, while fostering a culture of responsibility and informed decision-making,” Lucas stated.
The PARTY program will begin offering sessions in fall 2025 and run throughout the school year.
Guelph General Hospital is currently working with area schools and community organizations to schedule courses.
For more information visit gghorg.ca.
