Student Regina in Namibia
steps student Regina has now arrived at Welwitchia University in Kombat and has written an inspiring account of her experiences. Find out how the dedicated nursing student gained valuable insights into the autonomous and collaborative care of patients of all ages during her internships at Gobabis State Hospital. From medical wards and surgical departments to pediatric care – Regina shares her experiences, challenges and learning experiences 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 profession.
Nursing encompasses autonomous and collaborative care of individuals of all ages, families, groups and communities, sick or well 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, and I am a first-year nursing student at Welwitchia University in Kombat. I completed my first internship at Gobabis State Hospital from November 27 to December 15, 2023, in a medical ward, from December 18 to January 12, 2024, in the surgical ward and finally from January 15 to 02 February 2024 in the pediatric 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 learned a lot about stoma care, malnutrition, wound care and cross-infections. I was taught how to monitor a patient after surgery and how to change wound dressings using aseptic non-touch technique . I also saw some infected wounds that reopened after the staples had been removed. I also learned how to draw 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 internship was a woman who was admitted to the ward with lower abdominal pain, only to find out that she had cancer. She was transferred to palliative care. It was sad to see her leave, and I still think about her. This experience sparked my interest in palliative care. I had never met a palliative care nurse, although I had worked with dying people. I was also shocked by how many people with disabilities were admitted to the surgical ward and received very little support there.
Although I experienced some challenges in completing my working hours and putting together my internship logbook, my internship reinforced my desire to work as a registered nurse and midwife after graduation, possibly even in the maternity ward and palliative care.
“THANKS to all my sponsors and team leaders of steps who made all of my dreams come true!!”
Dear Regina, we are very happy to learn about your experiences and progress in your studies and are sure that you will become an excellent, committed nurse and midwife. We wish you all the best on your continued journey and are by your side.
