Organization for nurses interested in international orphan advocacy

[pfruechting]

I'm considering forming a nursing organization on international orphan advocacy in which research, initiatives, and orphan health issues are the main focus. It would be sort of a specialization of international public health on everything relating to orphans and how the nursing profession can contribute. It would involve global networking of nurses, establishing a database of nurse-directed orphan research, involvement of nurses in short- and long-term opportunities to contribute to orphan health issues, interdisciplinary work towards eradication of causes of orphans (poverty, HIV, famine), and working towards long-term sustainable options that optimize orphan health (family-centered care, foster care, and adoption) and minimize institutionalization.

Orphan health research issues include: attachment/bonding/emotional development, social development, nutrition, education, reduction of stigma, training of orphan caregivers, implementing non-institutional care options, and public policy.

I think one of the most exciting research opportunities is how emotional development impacts physical development. Early emotional deprivation affects not only neurological brain formation but also physical growth. Quite an important thing to consider for tykes with diseases like HIV.

[oliviajolie]

i think that's a great idea count me in to be there and help you all the way as this is my passion! i was thinking of doing something like this for the country of haiti once i finish school which isnt too much longer thank God.

yes i would be honored to be involved