Ward Nurse
Nursing
Min 2 Months
Please carefully read the role description below to verify that you meet the requirements. The apply button can be found at the bottom of this page.
Driven to provide hope & healing.
Mercy Ships is an international charity that brings hope and healing to the world’s forgotten poor through state-of-the-art hospital ships. Since 1978, our volunteer crew—made up of medical professionals and skilled workers from over 60 nations—has delivered free surgeries and medical care to over 2.8 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa, transforming lives one patient and one port at a time. Join our global team of over 3,000 volunteers and help us change lives daily.
About this role
Working hands-on to deliver inpatient surgical care to our patients, the Ward Nurses work around the clock to see that each and every patient receives the care and attention they deserve.
Requirements
Each role with Mercy Ships calls for a unique blend of experience, skills, and qualifications. The info below outlines what’s needed to serve effectively in this position—to meet operational standards and to help you thrive as part of the team.
What You Will Contribute
- Administer holistic patient care to assigned patients and expect to care for both adults and children on a multi-bed open ward
- Employ recent surgical experience in providing pre- and post-operative care to patients receiving maxillofacial, reconstructive plastic, general, pediatric, obstetric fistula repair, gynecological or orthopedic surgery. Experience in one of these surgical specialties preferred
- Partner with local Day Crew translators to provide culturally sensitive and compassionate care to patients
- Coordinate patient care with the specialty Team Leaders, Charge Nurses, Hospitalist Physicians and Surgeons
What You Will Need
- Registered Nurse with active license in home country; a minimum two years' experience needed after licensure
- Recent acute inpatient surgical/medical/Emergency Room experience of at least two years full-time or three years part-time in the past 5 years AND at the point of application can show working 30 hours or more per week in any of these clinical areas within the past 12 months
- Current Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) or Basic Life Support (BLS) certification with theory test and hands on skills assessment is required; ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) preferred and PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) optional
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with fluency in English
- An ability to effectively work with others in a cross-cultural environment
- Successful completion of Mercy Ships On Boarding program will be required for commitments of 12 months or more
About the team
You’ll be part of the Hospital Wards Team, caring for critically ill and post-op patients onboard our modern, fully equipped hospital ships. You’ll work closely with surgeons, anaesthetists, local Day Crew, and international volunteers united by a shared mission.
Frequently asked questions.
We are so excited that you are interested in learning more about serving with us. These are the most common questions we receive for this department.
SCAM ALERT: Please be aware of recruitment scams. Mercy Ships will never charge any fees as a part of the recruitment process. For more info click here.
Click here for a list of medical requirements to serve, including required immunizations.
The experience of a lifetime is calling.
More than 1,200 volunteers from over 60 nations serve with Mercy Ships each year.
At Mercy Ships, we are proud to be recognized around the world for the life-changing surgeries and training we deliver. We could not achieve this without our dedicated community of talented volunteers.
Imagine finishing your shift and stepping onto deck as the sun sets—knowing that today you’ve helped transform the lives of those who need it most. Apply now to start a journey that will reshape the lives of those you serve—and your own.
Faith-Led Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
Mercy Ships is a faith-based organization welcoming volunteers from diverse backgrounds and experiences who are committed to our mission and values. All qualified applicants will receive consideration.
Beware of Imposters: Confirm All Volunteer Communications
Volunteer opportunities and invitations to serve will always come directly from Mercy Ships’ official volunteer engagement teams. Never provide personal information to anyone without confirming their connection to Mercy Ships.
