Program Development for an International Nursing Immersion Experience

Abstract

The UMSN and Salokaya College partnered in 2012 as a realization of the needs of a global-minded education. While the program was interrupted in 2020, the next program will begin July 2023. The paper explores the planning of the clinical, experiential 4-week program.. It will encompass the development process, orientation, cultural-education considerations, and program itinerary. The development process had major considerations: pre-program education, addressing clinical, academic and cultural exposure goals. The program was developed to 1) give UMSN students orientation, 2) allow students to experience differences between healthcare systems through observations in clinical fields like hospitals, community health centers, and NGOs, 3) allow students to learn about the Indian nursing education system by pairing UMSN students with Salokaya students, 4) allow students to explore culture and society through historical sites and community tours. The program development and orientation materials are nearly completed; the Orientation will occur in mid-April. In an increasingly interconnected society, global considerations are critical in developing culturally competent nurses. While COVID-19 interrupted the global exchange of ideas and people, partnerships have been restored and are working to improve past programs through the incorporation of more structured programs to emphasize learning goals and targets for UMSN students.