[Faculty of Global Nursing] International Global Nursing Practicum III held at Philippine General Hospital

For five days from January 12th to 16th, 14 third-year students from Faculty of Global Nursing participated in the "International Global Nursing Practicum III" at the Philippine General Hospital.

On the first day, after introducing themselves in English, the students attended lectures on the hospital's mission, the role of nurses, and the Philippine healthcare system. After completing their practical training, they visited Rizal Park, San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Manila Cathedral, and Fort Santiago, which was used as a prison camp for many Filipino prisoners of war during World War II, deepening their understanding of the historical process. After witnessing the ravages of war, some students shared their valuable realizations, saying, "It's important to understand the facts from various angles."

From the second day onwards, the students were split into groups of five and undertook outpatient training in the internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology and pediatrics departments, as well as ward training in the internal medicine, surgery and oncology wards. At this busy hospital, which receives around 2,000 outpatients daily, the students learned about the nursing attitude of caring for each patient, and proactively engaged in their training by actively communicating with staff and patients.

In preparation for their internship, the students received guidance in advance on crisis management and intercultural understanding, and made thorough preparations for their trip, successfully completing the one-week internship.

Below are some comments from participants of the training.

・Through my internship, I learned that General Hospital is a national hospital that accepts all types of patients, and that it maintains infection control measures and cleanliness despite limited resources. In particular, I learned that it respects culture and religion, values beliefs and values while treating patients, and provides patient- and family-centered medical care, so it provides nursing care that is closer to the patient.
(Morizato, third-year student)

・Through this internship, I was able to compare the differences in medical systems and cultures between Japan and the Philippines, and learned that having well-established systems and supplies alone does not lead to the quality and richness of nursing. It was an opportunity to once again realize that even in a limited environment, being close to patients and their families, speaking to them, and listening to their feelings can be a great source of support. I realized the importance of approaching patients with an understanding of their culture and living background.
(Yamada, third-year student)

(Source: Faculty of Global Nursing)