Scarlett Crago

I chose to go overseas for my nursing placement because I was looking for an opportunity to gain independence and push out of my comfort zone. I wanted to learn how to be more resourceful and think outside of the box with a different perspective. Furthermore, I had a desire to learn about different cultures and how this impacts nursing and healthcare.

I decided on Sri Lanka because the Village Healthcare Week sounded really interesting. But what made me really excited were the tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. The culture, wildlife, and beaches looked breathtaking. 

The moment I set foot in the hospital I was surprised by how busy it was. But, how quickly the patients were seen, treated, and discharged from ETU was a really eye-opening experience for me. 

The struggles the staff faced due to a lack of resources and equipment surprised me the most. But still, they did their best to treat patients and maintain high standards in the hospital. 

Experiencing seeing patients with rabies and chest pain, as well as assisting with dressings and ECGs, were highlights of my time in the ETU. It was also really positive to see that healthcare was free in Sri Lanka like it is back home in the UK.

I absolutely loved the beaches in Sri Lanka – their beauty is unmatched! Being an island, Sri Lanka had many glorious beaches to choose from. I travelled to Trincomalee, Pasikuda, and Arugam Bay. You have to witness these amazing beaches for yourself to appreciate how astonishing they are. 

I’d recommend travelling to all the beaches I visited, as well as making a trip to the hill town of Ella. I enjoyed travelling by public bus. They were very cheap and safe. 

I made amazing new friends in the house and on placement. I never felt lonely while I was with my Work the World friends. 

The Work the World house was a great place to socialise in. I loved living with like-minded people. It made the evenings, weekends and placement so amazing. 

The insight I gained into Sri Lankan culture made me realise the value of going overseas for my placement. At the end of my journey, I gained newfound independence and resourcefulness.

It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and if you get the chance to do your elective placement in Sri Lanka, the only thing I can say is “Do it”! You will create lifelong memories and friendships that you will adore for the rest of your life.