University of Wisconsin–Madison

Malawi: Delaney Lokken (Local Interactions)

The other nursing students and I had the incredible opportunity to do a home health visit for a citizen. While at the visit, we were not only able to learn about the health and concerns of the patient, but we were also able to learn the way their home and neighborhood were established. Going to an at home visit for a patient taught me so much about how the impact of environmental, physical and mental surroundings impact the health of a patient.

Delaney wearing a traditional colorful blue skirt, playing soccer with locals. They are passing a black ball on a dirt road, with wooden huts behind them.
Me playing soccer with citizens in a neighborhood in Malawi

We were able to see the housing, food supply, animals, family and the neighbors of the patient. There was such a strong sense of community and welcoming through everyone. When we were getting ready to leave, the neighbors were playing soccer outside. They let us join immediately and even though we did not all speak the same language, I had never felt more connected and welcomed by a group of people so fast before. The patient and the family kept telling our instructors how happy they were to see everyone having fun together.

I think one of the key takeaways I have from this and why it is so memorable for me is because of the happiness provided to the family, and specifically the patient. Hearing the patient say that their pain was subsiding and that they would be able to sleep well that night because we were there was very heartwarming and honestly made my perspective on social interaction shift. It proved that trusted and respectful human connection is vital to feel comfort for every patient. This is why it is so important to have good connections with patients as a nurse as it seriously improves their quality of life, and that is something I was able to learn through this immersion experience.

A woman with blonde hair smiles at the camera wearing a white coat with a University of Wisconsin-Madison crest.

Delaney Lokken

Hometown: Deforest, Wisconsin

Major: Nursing

Program: UW Nursing in Malawi

I chose to participate on the UW Nursing in Malawi program because I think learning about the healthcare systems in another country is the opportunity of a life time, especially when we are able to utilize new skills, apply practical knowledge, and learn from those with a fresh mindset.  I am looking forward to meeting all kinds of healthcare workers and learning new clinical skills from them in a new environment.