Bettering the World Through Global Surgical Nursing

Team Heart

http://www.teamheart.org/

Description: Team Heart is an NGO that makes yearly medical missions to Rwanda to provide specialized cardiac care, screenings for rheumatic heart disease, and heart operations. They also promote sustainable healthcare by hosting training workshops for local Rwandan healthcare providers. Team Heart is also working on constructing a cardiac care center in Kigali, Rwanda.

Nursing: Nurses can apply to volunteer on the annual medical missions. Trips are self-funded and volunteers are encouraged to raise awareness and donations.

Funding:  Self-funded, nurses may receive stipend for some living expenses

Location: Kigali, Rwanda

Cardiostart International

http://cardiostart.org/

Description: Cardiostart conducts two-week long missions in impoverished countries where volunteers collaborate with local medical staff to perform cardiac surgery, implant pacemakers, as well as provide teaching and education regarding surgical techniques and ICE procedures. Beyond providing specific care, goals are to elevate surgival outcomes and enhance patient wellbeing by continuing care through local health workers. As well as providing care, volunteers raise money for medical supply and equipment shipments to be delivered.

Nursing: Nurses can volunteer to assist with surgical procedures, conduct physical exams, health screenings, and volunteer to teach local healthcare workers. Beyond cardiac issues, nurses can focus on stress and emotional health of local patients. Missions are usually two weeks long and occur 6-8 times per year.

Funding: Self-funded, volunteers are encouraged to raise awareness and donations

Locations: Uganda, Peru, Haiti, Vietnam