Nursing students from Iwate Prefectural University in Japan visited Spokane for a focused academic and clinical exchange with Washington State University College of Nursing and regional health care partners.
The visit centered on shared learning, clinical observation, and cross-cultural dialogue about nursing education, the scope of practice, and health care systems in both the US and Japan.
Welcome to WSU College of Nursing
The group began their academic programming at WSU’s Health Sciences campus with a welcome from Interim Dean Anne Mason. Faculty introduced students to WSU’s approach to preparing nurses for practice across community, acute care, and rural settings.
Students toured the new clinic at WSU Health, where they learned how community-based services address access to care and population health needs. They also participated in a Native American Health Sciences tea ceremony, gaining insight into Indigenous perspectives on health and healing.
Lunch and structured discussions with faculty and students created space to compare curriculum models, clinical hours, licensure preparation, and cultural expectations of nurses in Japan and the United States.
Academic Cross-Cultural Exchange
During the School Night at Gonzaga University, nursing students from Iwate, WSU, and Gonzaga participated in a joint academic exchange session. Discussions focused on nursing education, clinical practicum, evidence-based practice, exam and licensure processes, leadership development within interdisciplinary teams, and the evolving role of nurses in complex health systems.
A student from the WSU College of Nursing reflected, “I gained a deeper understanding of nursing in a different country, identifying both the unique differences and the universal similarities in nursing.”
“I learned that nursing environments and nursing exams are different between the US (computer-based and short) and Japan (paper and pencil taking all day long). I also noticed that people in the US are constantly experiencing and navigating the challenges and opportunities of a diverse society.”
Iwate Prefectural University student
Clinical Site Visits and Health System Partnerships
The itinerary included visits to Providence Holy Family Hospital and Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center, where students learned about nursing leadership, Magnet recognition, interprofessional collaboration, and specialty services.
Discussions with hospital administrators, clinical educators, and students in active rotations provided insight into how U.S. health systems structure clinical education and support professional development.
Students also visited Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital to observe pediatric-focused care and hear from a child life specialist about supporting patients and families during hospitalization. And a visit to a skilled nursing facility highlighted long-term and rehabilitative care, offering perspective on transitions across the continuum of care.
At the Spokane Ronald McDonald House, the students were fascinated to learn how the facility is operated entirely by donations. Volunteers are essential to run the facility and support families with sick children. This model is quite unique and rarely seen in Japan, making it a deeply impactful learning experience.
Experiential Learning and Student Presentations
Back at WSU, the group toured the Center for Experiential Learning and engaged with simulation and skills labs designed to strengthen clinical reasoning and team-based practice.
Iwate students presented to WSU nursing students during a course session focused on family context of care. Presentations revealed a strong connection between anime and health promotion and how seasonal events connect to the concept of well-being in Japanese culture. The student’s discussion prompted reflection on how cultural values shape patient and family engagement in both countries.
Strengthening Global Nursing Partnerships
Throughout the visit, students moved between academic, clinical, and community settings. The exchange reinforced a shared commitment to evidence-based practice, culturally responsive care, and leadership in nursing.
This annual experience strengthened relationships between institutions and supported preparation for nursing practice in an increasingly interconnected global health care environment.
