PHX Reporter

The Student Nurses’ Association (SNA) at Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) recently partnered with the International Service Learning (ISL) group for a nine-day medical mission trip to Puerto Peñasco, Mexico. This experience was both educational and rewarding as future healthcare workers engaged with the local community and medical society.

“During our time in Puerto Peñasco, we had the privilege of visiting several healthcare facilities, including the IMSS Bienestar hospital and a local medical center,” explained Mikayla Hinton, a recent PVCC graduate and former president of SNA.

Hinton, who is an RN at Banner Thunderbird neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), described setting up pop-up clinics at churches in various neighborhoods. These clinics allowed the group to provide medical care and assessments directly to community members.

“As the faculty advisor for SNA, I'm incredibly proud of our nursing students for their dedication and compassion in organizing this medical mission trip,” said Tina Barney, MSN-Ed RN CCRN CHSE®, PVCC Nursing faculty. “Their commitment to helping others is inspiring, and it's heartening to see them taking the initiative to make a difference in communities in need. This mission trip provided essential care to those lacking healthcare access and offered our students a deeper understanding of the impact they can have as future nurses. Their hard work and generosity are commendable.”

Hinton recalled, “One of the most unforgettable experiences was witnessing an emergent cesarean section surgery, giving us firsthand insight into the challenges and practices of healthcare in different settings.”

Beyond clinical experience, the group received support from a local team leader and translator who guided them through their work while ensuring they experienced local culture. Local neighborhood families welcomed them warmly.

“Their kindness and hospitality truly made our mission unforgettable and underscored the importance of community and connection in healthcare,” said Hinton. “We hope that more students get the chance to experience such a transformative journey, as it not only enhances our nursing skills but also broadens our understanding of the world and the power of compassion in healthcare.”

To learn more about PVCC’s Nursing Program visit their website or email nursing@paradisevalley.edu. To get involved with the Student Nurses’ Association contact tina.barney@paradisevalley.edu.