Priscilla Kumah is a registered Ghanaian and American nurse based in the United States. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Ghana and boasts over 10 years of professional experience. Currently, she is a YouTuber and the lead consultant at USRN Pathway Consult, headquartered in New York, USA.
Priscilla recently sat down for an interview with Just4WomenAfrica to discuss her journey to America to practice nursing and the growing trend of African nurses relocating abroad for better opportunities.
Why Are African Nurses Moving Abroad?
When asked about the reasons behind the mass exodus of nurses to America and Europe, Priscilla highlighted several key factors. She explained that nurses in many African countries are severely underpaid, with some earning less than $100 per month. Additionally, a significant number of nursing graduates struggle to find jobs, prompting qualified nurses to seek employment opportunities elsewhere.
Another critical issue she mentioned was the lack of basic equipment and protective gear, such as PPE, which makes it challenging for nurses to perform their duties effectively. This combination of financial and infrastructural challenges has pushed many nurses to explore options in countries like the United States and those in Europe.
What Should African Nurses Know Before Moving Abroad?
Priscilla emphasized several essential steps for nurses considering relocation:
- Attend an Accredited Nursing School: She stressed the importance of obtaining training from a recognized institution, as this significantly impacts the relocation process.
- Gain Documented Work Experience: Nurses should ensure they have several years of documented professional experience included on their CVs.
- Conduct Thorough Research: She advised nurses to research the requirements for practicing in their desired country and visit the nursing council website of that country for detailed guidance.
Understanding Nursing Levels in America
Priscilla explained the three nursing levels in the United States:
- RN1 (Level 1): For fresh graduates straight out of college.
- RN2 (Level 2): Achieved after completing the probation period.
- RN3 (Level 3): This level requires additional experience and effort to attain.
She also noted that there are two primary qualifications for registered nurses in the U.S.: an Associate Diploma or a BSc in Nursing. Interestingly, at work, no distinction is made between diploma and degree holders—all are treated as nurses.
Salary Expectations for Nurses in the U.S.
According to Priscilla, nurse salaries in the U.S. vary based on factors such as location and negotiation skills. She shared her experience, noting that when she began her career, the starting rate was approximately $28 per hour. During the COVID-19 pandemic, however, the vital role of nurses became evident, leading to a significant increase in pay rates. Today, nurses can earn between $35 and $45 per hour, depending on the state and city where they work.
Is There an Age Limit for Nurses in America?
Priscilla clarified that there is no retirement age for nurses in the U.S. As long as an individual is physically fit and willing to work, they can continue practicing nursing for as long as they desire.
Encouraging Nurses to Explore Opportunities Abroad
Priscilla urged nurses in Africa who have completed their studies not to remain idle at home while other countries actively seek qualified healthcare professionals. She believes that relocating to countries with better opportunities not only benefits the nurses themselves but also provides them with the resources and experience needed to make a difference in the healthcare sector globally.
Priscilla Kumah’s insights offer valuable guidance for African nurses contemplating a move abroad, shedding light on the opportunities and challenges involved in such a transition.
