Hollie Buchanan

I have a genuine interest in global reproductive and women’s health, and I felt that by going overseas for my midwifery placement, I could learn that there is more to good-quality care than verbal communication. I also realised that a language barrier is never a good reason to withhold self or compassionate care. 

When we arrived, on our first night, we were taken for ice cream by our housemates - the current students on placement - and the week after, we did the same for the following students. It’s a lovely welcome to a new country.

My first impression of the placement hospital was that it was very different from home: older, run-down, and extremely busy. The staff were incredibly friendly and in high spirits. From day one, they were actively searching for learning opportunities, never letting me miss an interesting case or task.

On placement, I learnt that the role of a midwife in Nepal varies significantly from home. The use of episiotomies in the labour room is routine for all patients, and care varies significantly between the labour room and the birthing centre. I also observed different suture techniques. There were no partners or family at the bedside in the labour room, which came as a shock.

I also learnt that appreciation creates an open mind, builds self-confidence, the ability to build rapport with others, understanding of other cultures, and makes connections with others.

Outside of placement, we visited Chitwan, went to the Buddha Stupa, Durbar Squares, Kumari Ghar, Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, and an Irish pub. We’d get together to play games in the evening and have movie nights in the Work the World house.

To others who are considering an overseas placement with Work the World, I’d say do it! Do not let the fact that you’re doing it alone stop you! Do it scared, do it alone, and you will learn so much about yourself.

 

 

 

 

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