Student Regina in Namibia
steps student Regina has now arrived at Welwitchia University in Kombat and has written an inspiring experience report. Find out how the dedicated nursing student gained valuable insights into autonomous and collaborative care for patients of all ages during her internships at Gobabis State Hospital. From medical wards to surgical areas to paediatric care, Regina shares her experiences, challenges and learnings on her journey to becoming a registered nurse and midwife. Discover how she advocates for inclusion, equality and the promotion of health and what plans she has for her future in the nursing industry.
Nursing encompasses the autonomous and co-operative care of individuals of all ages, families, groups and communities, sick or healthy and in all settings. It includes the promotion of health, the prevention of illness and the care of sick, disabled and dying people.
International Council of Nurses (ICN)
My name is Regina Ruduvini, I am a first-year nursing student at the Welwitchia University in Kombat. I completed my first internship at the Gobabis State Hospital from 27 November to 15 December 2023 on a medical ward, from 18 December to 12 January 2024 at the surgical ward and finally from 15 January to 02 February 2024 at the paediatric ward.
„As a student, I am passionate about advocacy, inclusion and equality.“
I didn't think I would enjoy working on different wards and dealing with different genders and ages with different diagnoses, but I did! The staff were all so friendly and helpful and I felt like part of their team.
I have learnt a lot about Stoma care, malnutrition, wound care and cross-infection learnt. I was taught how to observe a patient after an operation and how to Wound dressings with aseptic non-touch technique changes. I also saw some infected wounds that reopened after the staples were removed. I also learnt how to take blood from babies, teenagers, elderly and adult patients.
Both the ward manager and my mentor were very helpful on the various wards and asked me if there were any procedures I would like to watch before my placement ended. I asked to watch an endoscopy and a bowel operation and the surgeon was very informative throughout. I found it fascinating to watch.
Together with Nicolett and Fritz, also in the steps students programme, Regina studies in Kombat.
All of the university's nursing students are together here.
The most emotional part of my placement was a woman who was admitted to the ward with abdominal pain, only to be told she had cancer. She was discharged to palliative care. It was sad to see her go and I still think about her. This experience sparked my interest in palliative care. I had never met a palliative care nurse before, although I had worked with dying people. I was also shocked at how many people with disabilities were admitted to the surgical ward and received very little support there.
Although I did experience some challenges in completing my hours and creating my internship book, my internship has confirmed that I want to work as a registered nurse and midwife after I graduate, possibly even on the maternity ward and in palliative care.
„THANKS to all my sponsors and team leaders of steps who made all of my dreams come true!!!“
Dear Regina, we are delighted to hear about your experiences and progress during your studies and are sure that you will become an outstanding, dedicated nurse and midwife. We wish you all the best on your future journey and are at your side.
