Spotlight On Humanitarian Nursing

by Alice Abade

World Humanitarian Day is commemorated annually on the 19th of August to celebrate the selfless individuals who sacrifice their lives to help people affected by global crises. In nursing care, we cast light on humanitarian nursing which diversifies patient care from the confines of a hospital setting to emergencies.

This field of nursing is as challenging as it is fulfilling. One of the biggest challenges involves working in uncomfortable situations with minimal medical resources. However, for every challenge encountered, there is an equal opportunity for growth, making this field of nursing one of the most meaningful.

Humanitarian nurses while working in humanitarian emergencies face insurmountable challenges. They risk physical danger in conflict-stricken areas, psychological and emotional stress as a result of exposure to trauma in the line of duty, and cultural, ideological, and religious differences among many other challenges.

However, they are bound to benefit from increased knowledge of emergency response through adaptability and creative and practical problem-solving skills. Working on limited medical resources helps them get out of their comfort zone by creating innovative solutions using the resources available. Emotionally, they learn how best to cope with stressful situations.

Humanitarian groups comprise professionally and culturally diverse teams. Teamwork is key in crisis management by pooling ideas and drawing from each other’s strengths. Nurses benefit from sharing skills and knowledge with other medical professionals therefore advancing their knowledge of emergency patient care, medical crisis response and management, and public health among others. Interaction with diverse cultures encourages cultural sensitivity and respect while working together and delivering assistance appropriate to the cultural context of the affected.

Humanitarian nursing broadens knowledge of diseases and illnesses that affect other parts of the world. In addition, nurses are exposed to the disparities in health care across the world. Through such experiences, nurses not only witness global health issues but also become part of the solution by driving change either directly on the front line as a healthcare provider or by advocating some of the most pertinent global health issues.

The impact created through humanitarian nursing makes for a very fulfilling and meaningful experience. To the direct recipients of humanitarian assistance, an indelible mark is left in their hearts.

Humanitarian nursing is not only limited to disaster-stricken areas but also includes nondisaster humanitarian missions. This is often to remote communities with limited to no access to primary healthcare.

Nurses working in these remote areas get to be involved in programs that leave a lasting impact on the locals. Some of these programs include health camps, health training in the prevention of diseases, nutrition, and maternal health care. Through these programs, nurses have ensured the right to access healthcare for everyone.

Humanitarian nurses are selfless and fearless. They embody the humanity reflected in nursing care by going beyond the confines of the hospital to dispense care to the world’s most vulnerable populations across geographical borders.

We celebrate them precisely for this World Humanitarian Day