Nursing in diverse cultures: an international experience

The global service learning experience often has long-lasting influences. Students improve their communication and listening skills, develop better skills of patient assessment, learn to rely on their clinical judgments in consultation with faculty, and increase their knowledge of diseases prevalent in the developing world with limited resources. Anyone interested in developing or participating in an international service learning program can find an organized group for almost any country and length of stay. The best plan is to first go on a trip as a participant. Realize that working conditions may be primitive; even with the best steps in planning, supplies will still be limited. Participants will likely face health and social problems they cannot change in a short-term project. Look for organizations with sustainable programs as this allows for coordination and ongoing service to the communities. Finally, remember who nurses are and what nurses can do. Think frequently about nursing as both an art and a science. The international service learning experience embraces this fundamental characteristic of nursing that can often be difficult to articulate.