Nurses form the backbone of the world’s healthcare sector. These healthcare workers account for over half of the medical profession. They continue to be the front liners in the fight against any health issue.
Unfortunately, there are only 28 million nurses globally, almost 6 million short of the ideal number. Additionally, 80% are working in densely-populated countries, leaving some nations desperately extending their resources to make up for the gap.
Nursing students must acquire the most in-demand skills required by healthcare facilities in the current situation. Apart from learning in the four corners of the classroom and hospitals, students must consider a nursing internship abroad to develop additional skills.
Developing nations in the African, Latin American, South Asian, and Eastern Mediterranean regions are in greatest need of more nurses. That’s why government and non-government organizations in progressive nations partnered with these countries to launch nursing internships abroad. Below are the best places to earn experience as a nursing intern.
1. Kenya
Kenya is perhaps best known for being the home of former US President Barack Obama’s paternal ancestors. But, like many African nations, the country suffers from a severe lack of nurses. In spite of being one of the fastest-growing economies in Central Africa, Kenya has only 1.2 nurses for every 1,000 people.
The country also suffers from relatively low health spending and immunization rates. Intern nurses can learn so much from Kenya while enjoying its dynamic biodiversity and taking a once-in-a-lifetime safari adventure.
2. Peru
At the height of the pandemic in 2020, Peru’s health system suffered a breakdown as facilities suffering from staffing deficiencies scrambled to keep up with high infection rates. Besides the dire lack of physicians, this South American country only has 1.49 nurses for every 1,000 population.
The country’s challenging terrain, though breathtaking, is home to locals in remote sections of the Andes mountains—making access to healthcare difficult. Anemia is a widespread health issue, especially among children. With such challenging conditions, it can be rewarding for nursing interns to go to Peru to be trained by hardworking medical professionals and teach proper nutrition to communities.
3. Chile
In spite of being one of the more economically-advantaged countries in South America, Chile’s health sector is not as advanced as it should be. The industry suffers from a brain drain as medical professionals continue to seek higher incomes outside the country. As such, there are only 0.145 nurses per 1,000 Chileans. Healthcare access shows a wide gap between rural and urban areas.
4. Madagascar
This island nation is known for its exotic beaches and unique flora and fauna. Its colorful history as a colony has impacted its growth and development. As a young republic, Madagascar’s health access and educational opportunities are limited. However, traditional beliefs are still highly regarded, especially on the medical front. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) is working with customary healers to improve healthcare access. There are only 0.218 per 1,000 Malagasy people.
5. Bangladesh
Bangladesh had seen violence and political turmoil in the last few decades. But the country has been struggling to move forward even after becoming a democratic nation in the 1990s. As one of the most- highly populated countries globally, Bangladesh continues to face challenges, most notably in the healthcare sector.
The number of trained medical professionals in the country is deficient and cannot meet the demands of the local population. There are only 0.267 nurses for every 1,000 Bangladeshis, and most of them aren’t adequately trained to provide high-quality patient care. Organizations may provide nursing abroad paid internships to help improve the situation.
What to Expect as a Nursing Intern Abroad
Internships are beneficial as they provide students with practical experience vital to their future profession. Whether you’re considering unpaid or paid nursing internships abroad doesn’t matter. The goal is to allow you to gain experience in medical facilities such as clinics, hospitals, and health centers. These skills enhancement offers may be taken as a pre-nursing internship or for additional clinical experience as a nursing student abroad.
Nursing internships abroad are prevalent in low- to middle-income nations. You’ll be exposed to areas with fewer resources, including medical staff. Nursing interns deliver different types of patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse. These tasks may include administering medication, assessing patients’ conditions, and providing personal care such as bathing and dressing.
Nursing student internships abroad typically last for four to six weeks, depending on the program. You’ll gain experience in the nursing practice abroad, learn how to handle challenges, and participate in medical outreach activities.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a nursing student, consider an internship to earn the skills necessary for your chosen career. Make a list of the places you want to go, hopefully including any one of the countries mentioned above, and ask your school officials for additional information or reach out to us!
