A nursing student from the International Medical University (IMU) participated in a student mobility programme from August 26 to September 12, 2024, at Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) in Singapore. This programme provided the student with an opportunity to gain clinical experience, specifically focusing on neurological care.
Placement Overview
During the placement, the student worked in the Neurological Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and the Acute Care Unit (ACA) at TTSH. As a national referral centre for patients with neurological disorders, TTSH offers comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation services through the National Neuroscience Institute (NNI). This institute is staffed by specialists, nurse clinicians, and nurses skilled in various subspecialties related to brain and nervous system diseases.
Skills Development and Collaboration
The experience allowed the student to observe various nursing practices and develop essential skills within an international healthcare setting. Throughout the 14-day programme, the student collaborated with nurses from multiple countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, India, the Philippines, and China. This collaboration emphasized the importance of teamwork and diverse approaches to critical care.
Exposure to Advanced Technologies
The student also gained exposure to Epic Systems, a health information technology implemented by TTSH to improve the quality and personalization of patient care by streamlining medical records. Additionally, the placement highlighted the use of Omnicell Automated Dispensing Cabinets, which enhance nursing efficiency and minimize medication errors.
Patient Interaction and Care Procedures
Engaging daily with patients provided the student with opportunities to participate in their care, addressing various neurological conditions, including traumatic brain injuries, arteriovenous malformations, and seizures. The NICU experience involved procedures such as intracranial pressure monitoring and administering treatments crucial for patient recovery.
Transition to Recovery
The ACA experience allowed the student to observe the transition of patients moving from intensive care to recovery and to learn from the rehabilitation team. This fostered an understanding of the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in supporting patient recovery.
Conclusion
The student appreciated the opportunity to engage in a meaningful learning experience outside Malaysia, enhancing their clinical skills and broadening their understanding of global nursing practices and patient care methodologies.
(Source: International Medical University)