Missionary Nursing for New ADN's

nurseprnRN, BSN, RN · Oct 16, 2013

If you look into the programs that do this sort of thing you will find that they do not take new grads. The reason is pretty simple: they need their staffers to be able to hit the ground running, be proficient in their specialties, and be able to practice without a lot of supervision in a milieu without a ton of the technology we are used to in this country. They want people who have a demonstrated competence in their fields who will be able to be functional in a comparatively nonsupportive environment.

So yes, you need at least a few years (not one) of experience. As a nurse, not as a rad tech's assistant.

rachaelcornwell · Oct 23, 2013

Thanks! I know my rad tech assistant experience wont help me with missionary work- (I was just saying I think I can get an E.R. job as an RN at the hospital I currently work at pretty easily based on that :)) I know a lot of new grads in there and I'm already an employee. Thats what I was thinking.. I would need a couple years. But I am very smart and determined. So I will see how it goes. I wanted to do this while I'm still young (in my 20's) :) Thanks for your advice!!

wannabeanurseso · Feb 16, 2015

GOOGLE.COM is your best friend! :) be specific in your search, "nurse missionary trips to south America" would be a good place to start

allnurses Guide · Feb 16, 2015

{ ETA: oops! just noticed this thread is 2 years old. }

Does your denomination have an international missions board or committee? First place to look. Secondly, inter- or non-denominational groups such as Wycliffe Translators, Doctors Without Borders, etc. Some groups have annual short term trips to support established teams.

However, many countries will not issue visas for strictly "missions work". It is harder and harder to enter some areas as a "missionary", and if you get caught working even as a volunteer while on a tourist visa it can be trouble. Going with an established group will help you figure out the intricacies of it all.

One year of ER is not likely enough, but it is a good start. Good low level assessment skills are essential, using all that percussion and palpation, really listening for breath and bowel sounds and interpreting them correctly. Spanish dialects and idioms vary widely just here in the US, so expect to spend some time getting used to local idioms and accents.