SXU Nursing students and faculty tour Ireland

Students were studying hospice and health care in Ireland

Chicago (July 28, 2008) Nine Saint Xavier School of Nursing Students and faculty recently traveled to Ireland to study the country’s hospice and the health care system.

The group stopped in Shannon, Galway, and Dublin where they toured various hospice and medical facilities as well as historical sites such as the Cliffs of Mohr and Baggot Street.

While in Galway the students toured Galway Clinic, a new hospital facility. After the tour, the students shadowed nurses at the hospital in several units, gaining hands-on experience. They also toured Galway Hospice, which exists solely through donations.

The group also toured Mater Hospital in Dublin.

“The Mater Hospital is run by the Sisters of Mercy,” said trip organizer and SXU nursing professor Monica Ryan, MS, RN, APN, CNP. “It has a public facility and a private facility.”

Students listened to a presentation about the hospital and Ireland’s health care system. The SXU students then spoke with Irish students, comparing educational systems. Afterwards, students shadowed nurses throughout the hospital.

“Students wrote journals and reflections about their experiences every day, and this was a rewarding experience for all of them,” said Ryan.

-SXU-

For more information:
Contact: Rick Ducat
ducat@sxu.edu or 773-298-3325