Introduction
This essay explores the critical healthcare challenges faced by refugees in crisis zones, a pressing issue in global health that demands attention from nursing professionals. Working on telemetry and medical-surgical units, I have developed an interest in how healthcare delivery can be adapted to meet the unique needs of vulnerable populations. This paper aims to investigate the problem of delivering essential health services to displaced populations, summarise its professional relevance, and discuss research processes for identifying credible sources. It also includes an annotated bibliography of three peer-reviewed articles and reflects on the learning gained from this research process. By applying library research skills and a critical approach, this essay seeks to contribute to the understanding of effective interventions, such as mobile clinics and mental health support, in addressing refugee health needs.
Healthcare for Refugees in Crisis Zones: Overview and Relevance
Refugees in crisis zones face severe health challenges, including trauma, malnutrition, and infectious diseases, often compounded by limited access to medical services. This issue is professionally relevant to nursing as it underscores the need for culturally sensitive care and emergency response strategies in non-traditional settings. As a nurse, I am particularly interested in how healthcare systems can adapt to provide equitable care under such constraints. My experience on medical-surgical units has exposed me to diverse patient needs, which parallels the complexity of health issues in refugee populations. Understanding these challenges is vital for nurses to contribute effectively to humanitarian efforts and advocate for improved health equity.
Research Process and Source Selection
To investigate this topic, I conducted research using the Capella University Library, focusing on databases such as CINAHL and PubMed. Key search terms included “refugee health,” “crisis response,” “mobile clinics,” and “mental health support.” The criteria for selection prioritised peer-reviewed journal articles published within the last five years (2019-2023) to ensure currency and relevance. I assessed credibility by verifying that sources were from academic journals and authored by experts in global health or refugee studies. The process was initially challenging due to the broad scope of literature; however, refining search terms helped locate specific, relevant articles. Each source was evaluated for its contribution to understanding healthcare delivery in crisis zones, ensuring applicability to a nursing context in terms of intervention strategies and policy implications.
Annotated Bibliography
1. Altare, C., Kahi, V., Ngwa, M., Goldsmith, A., Hering, H., Burton, A., & Spiegel, P. (2021). Infectious disease outbreaks among forcibly displaced persons: An analysis of ProMED reports 1996–2016.
This article examines the prevalence of infectious disease outbreaks among displaced populations, drawing from ProMED data over two decades. The purpose was to identify high-risk diseases and gaps in health responses for refugees. The study found that cholera and measles were significant threats due to poor sanitation and vaccination coverage. It concludes that rapid response mechanisms, such as emergency vaccination programs, are essential. This source is relevant to my topic as it highlights the urgency of preventive care in crisis zones, a key area for nursing intervention.
2. Garry, S., & Checchi, F. (2020). Armed conflict and public health: Into the 21st century.
The purpose of this article is to explore the intersection of armed conflict and public health, focusing on displaced populations. It discusses how conflict disrupts healthcare access and increases vulnerability to disease and trauma. Findings indicate that mobile health clinics and international aid coordination are critical interventions. The article remains relevant to refugee healthcare by providing actionable strategies for nurses working in crisis settings, emphasising adaptability and resource allocation.
3. Javanbakht, A., Amirsadri, A., Abu Suhaiban, H., Alsaud, M. I., Alobedallah, Z., Rawi, R., & Arfken, C. L. (2019). Prevalence of possible mental disorders in Syrian refugees resettling in the United States.
This study investigates the mental health burden among Syrian refugees resettling in the U.S., aiming to quantify disorders like PTSD and depression. It reveals high prevalence rates due to trauma exposure and displacement stress, advocating for integrated mental health support. The findings are relevant as they underscore the need for trauma-informed care in nursing practice within crisis zones, offering insights into long-term health needs post-displacement.
Reflection on Learning
Developing this annotated bibliography has been an enlightening process, enhancing my ability to critically evaluate sources for credibility and relevance. I learned the importance of precise search strategies and the value of current, peer-reviewed literature in informing nursing practice. This exercise has prepared me to use similar research skills for future assessments, ensuring evidence-based approaches to complex healthcare problems like those faced by refugees.
Conclusion
In summary, healthcare for refugees in crisis zones presents significant challenges that are deeply relevant to nursing practice. This essay has explored the issue’s complexity, my research process, and key insights from three scholarly articles on infectious diseases, conflict-related health disruptions, and mental health needs. The learning gained from creating an annotated bibliography will inform future academic and professional endeavours. Addressing refugee health requires innovative interventions and a commitment to equity—principles central to nursing. Indeed, these findings highlight the need for nurses to advocate for and participate in global health initiatives to mitigate disparities.
References
- Altare, C., Kahi, V., Ngwa, M., Goldsmith, A., Hering, H., Burton, A., & Spiegel, P. (2021). Infectious disease outbreaks among forcibly displaced persons: An analysis of ProMED reports 1996–2016. Conflict and Health, 15(1), 1-10.
- Garry, S., & Checchi, F. (2020). Armed conflict and public health: Into the 21st century. Journal of Public Health, 42(3), e287-e298.
- Javanbakht, A., Amirsadri, A., Abu Suhaiban, H., Alsaud, M. I., Alobedallah, Z., Rawi, R., & Arfken, C. L. (2019). Prevalence of possible mental disorders in Syrian refugees resettling in the United States. Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, 21(6), 1275-1284.
