News from Nurses International

Our colleagues at Nurses International have just published their latest newsletter. This describes NI’s latest projects such as a recently updated medical-surgical nursing course and work underway to revise the oncology nursing course. There is also useful information on NI’s Clinical Alliance, which supports sharing of evidence-based resources for nurse staff development and clinical orientation. Shared resources include policies, procedures, a Transition Framework User Manual, survey tools, and teaching tools for developing both preceptors and clinical staff. Nurses International also has openings for volunteers, such as course writers and reviewers who wish to work at home while developing professional practice resources for nurses globally.

New Scholarship for Nursing Students

Recently, IUBAT BSN grad, Roshani Kandel RN DNP donated funds to create a scholarship for undergraduate nursing students in honour of Dr. Karen Lund, the Canadian volunteer who served over a decade as inaugural College of Nursing Director. Roshani wrote, “Since completing my DNP, I am living my dream nursing career as a preventative primary care provider for the neediest population in Iowa. It’s all because of the quality of the BSN program. Karen, I’m trying my best in each step with your guidance and blessings. We would be grateful if you would let us honor you with this scholarship fund. It would give a great vibe and inspiration for IUBAT nursing students in the future.” In the photo, BHP Directors Alex Berland and John Richards present Roshani’s donation to IUBAT Vice Chancellor, Dr. Abdur Rab and Treasurer, Prof. Selina Nargis. Please contact us if you would like to contribute to a nursing scholarship at IUBAT.

New publication by IUBAT Nursing faculty member

Shuvashish Das Bala, Assistant Professor & Coordinator at IUBAT College of Nursing, has recently co-authored “Impact of El Niño on public health and its preparedness measures," published in Springer’s Bulletin of the National Research Centre. The authors write, “By understanding the interplay between El Niño events and health vulnerabilities, communities can better prepare for and mitigate the health risks posed by these climatic fluctuations. Strengthened early warning systems, improved healthcare infrastructure, effective communication strategies, and collaborative efforts between various stakeholders are crucial in enhancing preparedness and safeguarding public health.” Bangladesh is at high risk for climate-related disasters, so this analysis is an important contribution to the public health literature.