In this blog post, I’ll take you through my immersive experience of my study abroad program delivering health services in Guatemala. From the rhythm of our daily routine to the heartwarming connections forged with the local communities, every moment of this journey has left an indelible mark on my heart.
A Glimpse into Daily Life
At the start of our trip, we engaged in the essential task of unpacking and organizing the medical supplies to prepare for clinic. Our days in Guatemala were a blend of purpose and dedication, as we committed an average of 8 hours to clinical work. These hours weren’t fixed; some days extended longer while others found us wrapping up a bit earlier. We took about a 30 minute to 1 hour break fluctuating depending on the specific station where we were assigned.
Our clinical work continued until the last patient had been attended to, making each day a unique variety of patient care, collaboration, and learning. After clinic, we do debriefs and discuss things that went well and things we can improve on. The clinic can take a bit longer due to the language barrier need to translate from English to Spanish and then to Qʼeqchiʼ. Typically, after two or three days of clinic we have a rest day where we have the opportunity to explore bit of Guatemala and have time to socialize.
Setting Up for Success
Transporting ourselves to the remote villages was an adventure in itself. The primary mode of transportation was trucks and SUVs, chosen for their ability to navigate challenging terrain. In preparation for the clinic day, some of the team members leave early to set up the registration area. This is crucial to streamline the patient intake process and ensure that everything is in order when the students and healthcare workers arrive. Upon arrival at the village, the team members quickly get to work, knowing their specific assignments and tasks for the day. Each person knows their role and begins setting up their respective stations. The setup process is typically fast paced, as patients are often already present and waiting for medical attention.
Clinics within School Walls
The clinics themselves were held in two main types of structures: school buildings situated within rural villages and the community center built by Guatemala Village Health (GVH).
A Day at the Clinic
Each clinic day started at 8 a.m., with various stations meticulously set up to cater to a diverse range of healthcare needs. The stations included Registration, Triage, Women’s Health, Chronic Care, Pediatric Health, Lab, and pharmacy. Collaborative teams, composed of medical doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses, and students from various disciplines, were assigned to specific stations.
As the day unfolded, patients received individualized attention and care across multiple services. From educating patients about their health conditions to performing medical assessments and administering treatments, every station played a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of the community.
The Human Behind the Journey
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Leylani Blanco, a 24-year-old. Currently working as a postpartum nurse, my journey into nursing began with prerequisite studies at the University of Washington Bothell, followed by a 2-year nursing program at Everett Community College. Pursuing continuous growth, I’m currently working towards my bachelor’s degree at UWB.
A Profound Impact
This class and study abroad experience hold a deep personal significance. They’ve expanded my horizons, both personally and professionally. Collaborating with individuals from diverse backgrounds has been enlightening. Despite our differences, we united as a team, forming genuine friendships.
The journey provided insights into a different healthcare system, revealing the profound influence of social determinants on community well-being. Witnessing this impact was humbling. It also illuminated the extent of my expertise as a nurse and where I can further evolve. This experience has given me the privilege to make deep connections with the people and places we’ve served.
Last but not least, each interaction, each clinical day, and each shared smile have shaped me into a better nurse and a more empathetic human being. This experience has touched my soul, and I’ll forever cherish the moments and connections that blossomed on this transformative path.
Embracing Growth
I strongly urge everyone to step out of their comfort zones and seek opportunities that lie beyond familiarity, as it’s in these uncharted territories that personal growth truly flourishes. While this study abroad program is undoubtedly valuable for healthcare professionals, it also extends its arms to students from diverse fields. The chance to exchange knowledge, experience global health, connect across backgrounds, and celebrate our uniqueness is an invaluable gift. I’m eager to hear about the remarkable adventures that await you on your own transformative path!
