From July 28 to August 8, 2025, the Department of Nursing at the College of Nursing, Asia University, arranged a two-week international professional practicum for nursing students at the Taoyuan International Airport Medical Center.
This meaningful learning journey allowed students to immerse themselves in a unique clinical environment that integrates emergency medicine, travel medicine, and public health. In the fast-paced and ever-changing airport setting, students strengthened their clinical nursing skills as well as their cross-cultural communication and service competencies.

Dean Dr. Hua-Shan Wu of the College of Nursing at Asia University stated that the Taoyuan International Airport Medical Center serves as the first line of defense for national health and plays a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being of international travelers. Interns must respond swiftly to unexpected medical events while interacting with travelers from around the globe—demonstrating sound professional judgment and calm execution. She emphasized that such experiences significantly broaden students’ international perspectives, enhance global health and cross-border care literacy, and lay a solid foundation for becoming globally competitive nursing professionals.

Nursing student Ms. Liao shared that the most unforgettable moment during her practicum at the airport medical center was participating in an emergency return-to-airport case involving a passenger who developed sudden chest pain and experienced a blood pressure surge above 200 mmHg mid-flight. She assisted with monitoring, oxygen preparation, and providing coordinated support to the medical team to ensure rapid transfer of the patient. The moment the patient was safely handed over to the ambulance crew, she deeply realized that every clinical decision and action carries the power to safeguard life. She also participated in yellow fever vaccinations and cross-national health education, gaining firsthand insight into the importance of nursing in international medicine and cross-cultural care. This valuable experience not only expanded her professional horizons but also strengthened her belief that nursing can make a meaningful impact anywhere in the world.

Nursing student Ms. Chen recalled that during her very first emergency call-out with the team, they encountered a traveler who suddenly became unconscious. Despite the busy and crowded terminal, the airport medical team worked seamlessly, dividing tasks clearly and responding calmly—an experience that highlighted for her the importance of professional teamwork. She also participated in international medical transfers, accompanying patients from hospital discharge to ambulance transport, arrival at the terminal, and ultimately to the aircraft. She noted that professional monitoring and documentation were essential at every stage. The practicum at the airport medical center not only enhanced her nursing skills but also strengthened her on-site decision-making and situational response abilities, boosting her confidence in facing future clinical challenges.

This practicum demonstrates the commitment of Asia University’s Department of Nursing to promoting internationalized education. Students not only gained professional knowledge but also engaged directly with issues related to cross-border healthcare and global health. Through hands-on experience at the nation’s gateway, the Department once again showcased its goal of cultivating internationally mobile nursing professionals who are capable of caring for global patients and supporting international medical missions.