The Loma Linda University Health Global Health Institute has introduced opportunities for Loma Linda University Medical Center nursing staff to serve in overseas mission hospitals through the International Service Program.
The program was created in response to an increase in Medical Center nursing staff inquiring about mission service abroad, following observational visits from various international nursing professionals to Loma Linda.
Derek Hidalgo, MBA, RN, director of patient care for medical ICU/surgical ICU/neurosciences, believes that nursing staff will benefit from international service just as visiting nurses have benefited from observation and mentorship at LLU Medical Center.
“Learning how to teach and train in a hospital setting without emerging medical technology and advanced health care systems may allow staff to grow professionally and personally,” Hidalgo said. “They will likely return better nurses — allowing us to provide our patients with the best care possible.”
In order to apply to participate in the program, nurses are required to have at least two years of RN hospital experience, a BS degree, an interest in teaching and mentoring, and a recommendation letter from their nurse manager.
Service trips are typically two weeks in length and have defined objectives, such as staff development, nurse leadership and management, and nurse education. Volunteer nurses may also assist with the implementation of Joint Commission International standards and patient safety goals.
Current opportunities at partner sites include Hospital Del Sureste in Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico, and Dong'e People's Hospital in Dong'e County, Shandong, China.
To learn more about international nursing service opportunities through the Global Health Institute’s International Service Program, visit lluglobal.com/nursing.