Short-Term Global Experiences: Reflections, Themes, and Implications

Background: Many schools of nursing offer international service-learning opportunities. Research on these experiences describes benefits to students, but the importance of building long-term relationships and community health capacity is seldom addressed. Method: The written posttravel reflections of 89 advanced practice nursing students, following brief global experiences over 9 years in developing areas, were analyzed to identify themes and implications for future work. Results: Analysis of student reflections produced four themes and 13 subthemes. Students described accomplishments and challenges. Improvements were noted in clinical skills and linguistic abilities. Challenges included ethical issues of undermining the value of local providers, obstacles to appropriate follow-up care, and disruption of community life. An ongoing project that responds to community needs for education and training was offered as a better means to improving health. Conclusion: Global health service-learning experiences can be beneficial to both students and communities, especially if imbedded in structured academic courses designed to include long-term solidarity with the community and the development of health capacity and ethical nursing practices.