A nurse wants to volunteer in West Africa to assist with the Ebola out

QUESTION

A nurse wants to volunteer in West Africa to assist with the Ebola outbreak. What should the nurse consider before agreeing to relocate to West Africa for 6 months? (Select all that apply.)

1. Locate the nearest embassy
2. Receive recommended immunizations
3. Understand the country’s security standards
4. Receive permission from the state board of nursing
5. Know the scope of nursing practice in the host country

ANSWER:

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, 5

Nurses considering working or volunteering in global health settings need to become informed about a number of issues to ensure they are safe and able to provide nursing care that is within their scope of practice, and that reduces the likelihood of causing harm in the host community. Some of these considerations include: exploring the reputation of the employer or volunteer agency or agencies; becoming knowledgeable about local and national security considerations in the host country; obtaining recommended/required immunizations and reviewing travel health advisories; obtaining contact information and knowing the location of the nearest embassy or consulate from their home country; knowing the scope and standards of nursing practice in the host country; and seeking nursing registration in the host country. An additional consideration before working or volunteering in a global health setting is to determine if the nurse’s home country has specific requirements or restrictions for practicing abroad. The state board of nursing does not need to give permission for the nurse to volunteer.