Happythreads interview: Nursing placement in Tanzania 🇹🇿

At Happythreads, we love celebrating healthcare professionals who go above and beyond in their work. We had the privilege of speaking with Caitlin, a children’s nursing student who recently embarked on a hospital placement in Zanzibar, Tanzania. Here’s her story of courage, compassion, and learning.

Why choose a hospital placement in Tanzania?

I’m a 20-year-old children’s nursing student from Birmingham. Since I was seven years old, I’ve dreamed of becoming a nurse, with a focus on oncology or neonatal care. Stories of hospitals in resource-limited settings always stayed with me, and I hoped to help in any way I could. When my university offered a placement in Zanzibar, Tanzania, I knew I couldn’t pass it up.

Even though I couldn’t change everything, I believed that making even a small difference in someone’s life would make the journey worthwhile.

What to expect on an international medical placement

How long was your placement, and what was your role?

My placement lasted five weeks. Initially, I was there as an observer, but I quickly realised that due to the hospital’s lack of resources, I needed to step up and actively help where I could.

What did a typical day look like?

I worked shifts from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, helping with dressing changes, ward rounds, medications, and even supporting women during labour. No two days were the same, and each brought its own challenges and opportunities to learn.

The realities of healthcare in Tanzania

How is healthcare in Tanzania different from the UK?

The hospital setting was completely different from what I was used to in the UK. Some of the stark differences included:

• Resource shortages: Up to three patients shared a single bed, and even expired equipment was used.
• No pain management: Pain relief wasn’t given during labour or surgeries like c-sections.
• Uniform medication doses: Every patient received the same medication dosage, regardless of age or weight.

Were there any unique medical practices?

One of the most shocking moments was witnessing a c-section where the patient could feel the procedure and kicked throughout due to inadequate anaesthesia.

During labour, midwives would apply pressure to a woman’s stomach to speed up delivery, something I’d never encountered before.

Overcoming challenges and growing as a nurse

What was the most challenging part of your placement?

The hardest thing to witness was the lack of resuscitation efforts. To address this, my peers and I organised a teaching session to share resuscitation techniques and explain its importance. It was a small but meaningful step.

What did you learn from this experience?

I came away with a deeper appreciation for the NHS and the resources we have in the UK. I also learned to adapt quickly, think creatively, and value the knowledge and resilience of healthcare workers everywhere.

Memorable moments from the placement

One of the most rewarding experiences was helping a woman during labour. We stayed in touch, and I’ve been able to follow up on how she and her baby are doing. It’s a memory I’ll always cherish.

Why you should consider an international medical placement

If you’ve ever thought about volunteering overseas, here’s what she has to say:
I would 100% recommend it! It’s a life-changing experience that teaches you resilience, compassion, and adaptability. It’s an amazing way to grow personally and professionally.

What’s next for this inspiring nursing student?

I’m already planning to return to Zanzibar next year to volunteer at the same hospital and reconnect with the people I met. I hope to pursue more international opportunities in the future to continue making a difference.

5 tips for anyone considering an international placement

• Research the healthcare system and culture of your destination to set realistic expectations.
• Be flexible and open to stepping outside your comfort zone.
• Pack extra medical supplies to donate - hospitals in resource-limited settings often face shortages.
• Engage with local healthcare professionals to exchange knowledge and skills.
• Stay connected with the people you meet; they often become lifelong inspirations.

At Happythreads, we’re proud to support healthcare professionals who strive to make a difference. Stories like this remind us of the incredible work being done by students, nurses, and doctors worldwide.

Considering an international placement? Don’t forget to pack your favourite medical scrubs - comfort and durability are a must in any healthcare setting! 🌟