Ghana experience ignites nursing students' passion

Study abroad is an important part for some students and their education, allowing them to develop a new perspective when it comes to a major. For BSN students Summer Lee and India Stubbs, they challenged themselves and spent a part of their summer providing care in the African nation of Ghana.

During this time, they not only gained a new perspective in health care but their drive for caring for patients now burns brighter. 

“I decided to study abroad in Ghana to delve into the cultural differences of the health care industry,” said Stubbs. “As a future nurse, I recognize the importance of understanding diverse patient backgrounds and their medical histories.”

This study abroad critically looks at the health care system and public health issues in both western and traditional in Ghana. Students work hands-on learning through conversation and engage with the community that they are staying in. For Lee and Stubbs, they were a part of proving care for these community members. 

“Being a part of this experience really solidified my passion for nursing,” said Lee. “Working in the NICU with mothers and helping them through the birthing process reassured me that this is the path for me.” 

Both worked at Ghana East Municipal Hospital; while working on the floor they gained valuable experience that put their education into action. 

“One of the most memorable experiences for me was my time in the Labor and Delivery Unit,” said Stubbs. “I had the opportunity to witness firsthand the birthing process, visually and physically inspecting each stage.”

Lee and Stubbs were in Ghana for three weeks, where they shadowed and worked with various practitioners in various fields in health care and other community settings like early childhood care and development centers.

“Through this trip, I gained invaluable knowledge through discussions with neurologists, pediatricians, nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals,” said Stubbs. 

While there they also critically reviewed health care in Ghana and noted differences compared to the United States. 

“One noticeable difference I observed while in Ghana was the patient relationship in hospitals. With fewer patients to attend to, the staff could dedicate more time to each individual,” stated Stubbs.” Unlike the U.S., where the ratio often is 1 nurse to 12 patients, in Ghana, all nurses collaborate closely to focus on the holistic health of each patient.”

Lee paid special attention to how staff at the hospital overcame challenges to be able to provide the best care.

“Compared to a hospital in the U.S., they had less resources, so I noticed while we were working, the nurses and doctors would holistically look at situations and triage each case to conserve resources for patients who have a greater need,” said Lee. 

Now both have come home with a new drive for health care and providing patient care. 

“My experience in the pediatric unit deeply motivated me to pursue my dream further. It also inspired me to seek opportunities to continue learning and working in different countries,” said Stubbs. “This is where I can gain insights into cultural differences and contribute my skills. I aspire to merge my love for nursing to globally care for patients.”

“My experience during this study abroad and at MSU has reaffirmed that I belong here, I belong in nursing, and I will achieve my dreams as a nurse providing quality care for new mothers and their babies,” said Lee. 

Published July 2024