Volunteer Abroad as a Nurse – International Volunteer HQ

Are you an internationally trained nurse struggling with finding a volunteering opportunity? Volunteering in the nursing profession is an excellent opportunity to build your skills as well as give back to society. The international volunteer HQ is an organization that places over 3,000 volunteers yearly in Asia, Central America, South America, and Africa. With many projects they run, they are a go-to program for volunteers in nursing.

Benefits of Volunteering Abroad as a Nurse

Program fees from only $275

Paying the program fee is a reason to go for IVHQ because it provides an affordable and accessible option for volunteering abroad. With fees starting from only $275, IVHQ offers a cost-effective way for individuals to participate in meaningful projects that align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. By keeping the program fees low and transparent, IVHQ ensures that volunteers can focus on making a positive impact rather than being burdened by excessive expenses. This affordability allows a broader range of people, including students and those on a tight budget, to experience the enriching journey of international volunteering through IVHQ.

Alignment with the UN Development Goals

Volunteering with the IVHQ (International Volunteer HQ) program allows volunteers to contribute to projects that align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN’s SDGs are 17 global goals to address various social, economic, and environmental challenges to create a more sustainable world by 2030. IVHQ carefully selects and supports projects that directly contribute to one or more of these goals. As a volunteer, you can be assured that your efforts will have a meaningful and impactful contribution towards achieving these important global objectives.

Accommodation, Meals, and Orientation

IVHQ takes care of the essential logistics to ensure volunteers have a safe and comfortable experience during their placement. This includes providing suitable accommodation that is usually close to the project site, ensuring volunteers have a secure and convenient place to stay. Additionally, meals are often provided, which helps volunteers focus on their work without worrying about food arrangements.

Furthermore, IVHQ offers an orientation program to familiarize volunteers with the local culture, customs, and project details. This orientation helps volunteers adapt to the new environment quickly and better understand the context in which they will be working. It also emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity, ensuring volunteers approach their work with respect for the local community.

Pre-departure Guidance and 24/7 In-Country Support

IVHQ understands that preparing for an international volunteering experience can be overwhelming, especially for first-time volunteers. To address this, they provide pre-departure guidance that includes information about the destination country, project details, required documentation, and tips for preparing for the journey.

Once volunteers arrive in the host country, they can rely on 24/7 in-country support provided by IVHQ. This support network ensures that volunteers have access to assistance and guidance whenever they need it. Whether it’s a simple query or a significant challenge, knowing that there is reliable support available can greatly enhance the overall volunteer experience and provide peace of mind throughout the placement.

Overview of International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ)

IVHQ (International Volunteer HQ) Include is a well-established and reputable organization in the field of volunteer work and community development. With an impressive 15 years of experience in practice, IVHQ Include has made a significant impact on various communities around the world. 

Destinations for Volunteer Nurses

The IVHQ offers volunteering opportunities in 30 health and medical programs for 14 destinations. These destinations with medical programs include:

1. Costa Rica
2. Cambodia
3. Ghana
4. Nepal
5. India 
6. Peru
7. Sri- Lanka
8. Vietnam
9. Zambia 
10. Tanzania
11. Guatemala
12. Ecuador
13. Bali 
14. Argentina

Nursing Roles For Volunteers

1. Healthcare Support: As a nursing volunteer, you might assist local healthcare professionals in providing medical care to patients. This can involve tasks such as taking vital signs, administering medications, dressing wounds, and providing general support to patients.
2. Medical Outreach: Some programs may involve medical outreach initiatives, where nursing volunteers travel to remote or underserved communities to provide healthcare services. These initiatives often include health screenings, health education, and basic medical treatments.
3. Maternal and Child Health: Nursing volunteers might work in maternal and child health clinics, providing care to expectant mothers and newborns. This could include prenatal care, postnatal support, and educating mothers about child health and nutrition.
4. Public Health Education: Nurses with a background in public health might participate in health education programs. This could involve conducting workshops, seminars, or community outreach to raise awareness about health issues and promote preventive measures.
5. Community Health Projects: Nursing volunteers may be involved in community-based health projects that aim to improve overall health and wellbeing. This could include initiatives like vaccination campaigns, sanitation projects, or disease prevention programs.
6. HIV/AIDS Awareness and Support: Some nursing volunteer programs focus on HIV/AIDS awareness and support. Nurses might work with local organizations to educate communities about prevention, provide counseling, and offer care and support to individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
7. Elderly Care: Nursing volunteers might assist in caring for the elderly in nursing homes or community centers. This could involve helping with daily activities, providing companionship, and monitoring their health needs.
8. Health Screenings and Check-ups: Nursing volunteers may conduct health screenings and check-ups in schools, community centers, or clinics. These screenings could identify health issues early on and ensure that individuals receive appropriate care and referrals if needed.

Requirements and Qualifications

To volunteer with IVHQ for nursing you must be a registered nurse. If you are volunteering as a student you must have completed your second year.

For more information about qualification click here 

Application Process

Step 1: Select a destination and a volunteering program

The IVHQ offers a wide range of opportunities to volunteer, which you are supposed to choose from and the destination you want to volunteer. Use the search criteria to get to know.

Step 2: Apply online

Step 3: Secure your place

Step: Prepare your journey

Step 5: Get ready to travel

Step 6: Pay your program fee

Step 7: Work abroad as a volunteer

More detailed information.

Conclusion

Volunteering abroad as a nurse with International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) is a highly rewarding and transformative experience. IVHQ’s commitment to ethical and sustainable volunteering allows nurses to impact communities worldwide while positively developing personal and professional growth. The opportunity to work in diverse settings enhances cross-cultural communication skills, empathy, and adaptability. Despite challenges like resource limitations and health disparities, the experience fosters resilience and a deeper appreciation for global healthcare. IVHQ’s responsible volunteering approach aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring a lasting and empowering impact on local communities. Ultimately, nurses return home with a broader global perspective and a sense of purpose in their profession, contributing to a brighter future for those in need.