Humanitarian Nursing: How to Work With MSF, the Red Cross and Other Aid Organisations

Humanitarian nurses work in conflict zones, disease outbreaks and disasters, often with very few resources. It is demanding, life-changing work. Here is how nurses get into it.

Imagine running a clinic in a refugee camp, treating malnutrition, wounds and malaria with a small team and limited supplies, then training local staff to continue the work after you leave.

Organisations that recruit nurses

• Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders)
• The International Committee of the Red Cross and national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies
• UN agencies such as the WHO and UNICEF
• International NGOs such as International Medical Corps and Save the Children

Typical requirements

• Registration as a nurse and usually at least two years of post-qualification experience
• Experience in emergency, critical care, paediatrics, maternity or tropical medicine is valued
• Availability for missions of several months
• Adaptability, teamwork and resilience
• Languages such as French, Arabic or Spanish are often a big advantage

What missions are like

Missions can involve long hours, basic living conditions, security rules and emotional strain. Many organisations pay a modest salary or stipend and cover travel, housing and insurance. Support before, during and after missions varies.

How to prepare

1. Gain broad clinical experience
2. Take courses in tropical medicine or humanitarian health
3. Learn another language
4. Volunteer locally in emergencies or outreach
5. Apply to an organisation’s nursing roster

Frequently asked questions

Is humanitarian nursing paid?

With large organisations, usually yes, though often less than nursing at home.

Is it safe?

Organisations have strict security rules, but some settings carry real risk. Ask detailed questions before accepting a mission.

But will it be too hard emotionally?

It can be. Good organisations offer psychological support. Talk to nurses who have been on missions and be honest with yourself about your limits.

Related: Nurse volunteering overseas: what to know

Sources: Médecins Sans Frontières, International Committee of the Red Cross, World Health Organization, International Council of Nurses.