[Faculty of Global Nursing] Conducts International Global Nursing Practice III at the University of Health Sciences in Laos

From February 23rd to 27th, five third-year students from the Faculty of Global Nursing conducted "International Global Nursing Practice III" at the University of Health Sciences, Laos. This was the first time that International Global Nursing Practice III was offered at the University of Health Sciences, Laos. Our university accepted students and faculty from the university in February 2025 through the JST Sakura Science Program, and those students and faculty provided warm and kind support.

During the first half of the internship, I had the opportunity to experience Laotian culture through activities such as visiting temples in the city with Laotian students and faculty, purchasing a sinh (traditional skirt) at a market, and trying Laotian cuisine. At the university, after introducing ourselves to each other, I attended lectures on infant development and basic nursing skills in pediatric Global Nursing together with Laotian students. Furthermore, through a variety of programs, including infant and prenatal checkups at District Hospital and accompanying visiting nurses during community internships, I had a valuable experience catching a glimpse of aspects of healthcare and daily life in Laos.

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.

Here are some comments from participants in the internship program.
I learned about the differences between Japan and Laos in vital sign measurement, injections, and IV drips, and how to practice safe nursing. I realized that nursing methods differ depending on the country's background, such as the medical system, staffing levels, and supply situation, and that even when aiming for the same "safety," the forms of practice vary. I learned the importance of doing my best within limited circumstances and felt the importance of having a broad perspective as Global Nursing.
(Fukumoto, 3rd year student)

I observed outpatient clinics, prenatal checkups, and childhood vaccinations at a hospital. During childhood vaccinations, if the child's height, weight, and age were within the normal range, a doctor's examination was not performed; instead, the nurse took the lead in administering syrup, injections, and checking the child's development. I learned that within limited medical resources, nurses play a significant role and responsibility in efficiently providing medical care. I also learned that medical systems differ depending on the country's policies and resources, and that the scope of the nurse's role varies accordingly.
(3rd year student, Fujii)

(Source: Faculty of Global Nursing)