Earlier this semester, program faculty and students traveled to Kigali, Rwanda to volunteer with International Organization for Women and Development.
They provided anesthesia care in a setting with limited resources, focusing on women who have suffered birth trauma, particularly obstetric fistula.
According to the United Nations Population Fund, Obstetric fistula is a severe medical condition resulting from prolonged or obstructed labor.
This condition results in a tear between the vagina and the bladder or rectum, and without timely and proper treatment, it can lead to long-term health complications.
Treatment and preventive surgeries are crucial for the health and well-being of women and young girls affected by this condition.
Faculty and students from Northeasterns Nursing Department gained invaluable experience through their volunteer efforts.
Anesthesia program faculty Kelly Gallant, clinical preceptor and alumnus Will White, CRNA, alumna Denise Jenn, CRNA, and senior student nurse anesthetist Jenny Choe were part of the team. Together, they contributed to this life-changing care.
Providing anesthesia is crucial for performing these and other surgeries safely.
Working in these settings elevated their understanding of global health disparities, especially in maternal health, while also exposing them to diverse healthcare challenges.


