New Experiences in Wuhan, China

Sophie and I have been going to the traditional Chinese clinic with a group of Hope School of Nursing students here in Wuhan. At the clinic, we have observed traditional Chinese medicine which includes cupping, acupuncture, and massage therapy. We even got an opportunity to practice cupping on a fellow student. Some of the students even tried to perform acupuncture on themselves! The nurses and students are welcoming and open to us observing these traditional practices. Also, the patients were eager to learn about Sophie and I. Coming from a home where Chinese is commonly spoken to me, I was able to understand and semi-respond with head nods and smiles to their questions about us. We even got the opportunity to accompany two nursing students on a home health visit where they educated a senior citizen about preventing constipation.  Also, we attended a constipation education seminar at the local community center where at least thirty geriatric community members were in attendance. At the end of the seminar, they played a jeopardy game to gauge what they learned and were rewarded toothbrushes, washcloths, and bananas. They were beyond excited to be receiving these prizes.

On a typical morning to the clinic, we start with an hour public bus ride, which involves changing buses. We frantically run to the buses and hope there are open seats, or we stand shoulder to shoulder among Chinese businessmen and women. While driving on the bumpy roads through Wuhan, we pass by skyscrapers, giant shopping malls, rural villages, and even a Starbucks. Once arriving, we grab freshly made breakfast (Chinese-styled eggs and rice or noodles) from side carts often in alley ways. We grab our food in paper bowls and wooden chopsticks and walk to our site.

After 5 weeks in Wuhan, I have grown accustomed to the lifestyle and culture and even found my Chinese to be improving.  I have gained many hands-on experiences in the traditional Chinese clinic and have made many new nursing friends who enjoy showing us Wuhan’s sites. I am enjoying challenging myself every day in this different environment and hope to gain more valuable experiences in my remaining weeks.