It seems hard to fathom, but the start of the coronavirus pandemic is now four years behind us. Still, the nursing shortages, which were exacerbated by the worldwide outbreak, continue to affect hospitals nationwide. On this episode of Journey, A MedPro Podcast, host Vanessa W. sits down with Joely C., Senior Manager for International Testing at MedProU and a former NCLEX instructor and manager. Before joining MedPro International, Joely worked in MedSurg, general pediatrics, adult and pediatric ER, and pediatric outpatient urgent care. Vanessa and Joely discussed the ongoing workforce shortage and how immigrant nurses are providing quality care.
Communication, Lost In Translation
According to CGFNS International, 688,000 foreign-educated nurses are working in the US. For many, English is their second language, but communication differences can extend beyond language. Joely pointed out that there is less of a hierarchy in U.S. patient care than in other countries, and nurses need to be “more direct and assertive.” She said that it’s just part of acclimating to a new culture. Joely is familiar with the process as her parents immigrated from the Philippines. She suggested nurses put themselves in situations where they can learn, grow, and become more comfortable with their surroundings. Her parents joined a Filipino bowling community to meet people outside of work and connect to their new home.
Joely reasoned that anything an Explorer can do you can do not to feel isolated and alone will help curb homesickness.
- Prioritize self-care
- Expect a learning curve
- Prepare for culture shock
- Build a local support system (through joining clubs and groups)
- Stay connected with family through phone and video calls
Explorers are not only here for themselves; they’re also here to benefit their families. CGFNS estimates that immigrant nurses send over $1.5 billion home to the communities they left. Their work not only benefits themselves, the client, patients and our communities but their families and communities back home as well.
Hear more immigrant nurses on the full podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple.