Kimberly Couch, R.N. Joins Team KACC's CNA Training Program
Kim Couch joined KACC in the role of CNA Clinical Lab Coordinator this past August. Ms. Couch is an integral part of our CNA Training Program team of nurses. In the lab, she helps prepare CNA students to master the 21 skills required to succeed within the parameters of CNA patient care.
Ms. Couch says her interest in KACC was based on her desire to "educate and instruct in the healthcare field of study at a time-honored educational institution, KACC." In KACC's Clinical Lab, Ms. Couch works with students providing instruction and hands-on training in a controlled, learn-by-doing environment. She then accompanies students while they attend clinical training sessions at one of our local extended-care facilities. This allows Ms. Couch the opportunity to see her students first-hand, interacting with patients in the clinical setting.
Ms. Couch, was herself a CNA years ago. She earned her CNA certification at Kankakee Community College (KCC). She began her long career in healthcare at the age of 18, working as a CNA for the Bensenville Homes System. While working as a CNA, she returned to KCC for her Associate's Degree in Nursing.
As a nurse, Ms. Couch had a wide range of experiences. She worked at St. Mary’s Hospital, Riverside Medical Center, and Silver Cross Hospital in Medical ICU, Surgical ICU, Cardiac ICU, and Emergency Departments. She was also trained in Peritoneal Dialysis and served as a precept for EMT’s, Paramedics, and newly graduated RN’s. Prior to joining KACC, Ms. Couch enjoyed 18 years at Manteno School District in the Nursing Department.
Ms. Couch, a life-long learner, completed her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing, Cum Laude, at Florida Hospital of Health Sciences in 2007. She went on to the University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing to obtain her Professional Illinois Educator’s Licensure and Certification in School Nursing. Shortly thereafter, she attended Concordia University and was awarded a Master’s in Family Sciences, Cum Laude, and ten credits toward a Doctorate which completed her educational journey in the Nursing profession.
Ms. Couch enjoys living the country life with her husband. Scott. and their dogs, Princess Leia and Mango. Also included in the mix are 3 cats, named Binx, Indigo and Rosco. They enjoy traveling, running 5K’s, working on their country home, landscaping, gardening and campfires. Scott and Kim have 3 adult children and two awesome grandchildren.