12-14 February 2025 — IMU University proudly hosted its much-anticipated Student Exploratory Workshop, specially designed for school leavers—SPM, O-Level, and pre-university students—who are eager to explore pathways in healthcare education and careers. One of the standout sessions was dedicated to the Bachelor of Nursing programme, conducted on 14 February 2025 from 8:45 am to 9:45 am. This year, 40 enthusiastic participants joined us for an immersive, hands-on experience, making it one of our most dynamic workshops yet.

Spearheading the session was Dr Lim Swee Geok, Head of the Nursing Division at IMU, whose engaging presentation offered a deep dive into the programme’s distinctive features.

Dr Lim elaborated on the robust curriculum, emphasizing the seamless blend of rigorous theoretical learning with practical experience—each semester including eight weeks of clinical posting. This balanced approach ensures students are well-prepared, both intellectually and practically, to face the challenges of modern healthcare environments.

In addition to detailing the academic framework, Dr Lim shed light on various sponsorship opportunities available to nursing students. These financial aids, coupled with IMU’s holistic teaching philosophy, make the Bachelor of Nursing programme truly stand apart from other healthcare courses in the region.

The session’s highlight was undoubtedly the practical component, where participants had the chance to try their hand at essential life-saving techniques. Guided by experienced facilitators and current nursing students, attendees learned and practiced:

• Adult Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Infant Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Proper Bandaging Techniques
• Correct Donning and Doffing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

These exercises not only taught participants crucial skills but also provided a first-hand glimpse into the responsibilities and quick thinking required in real healthcare settings.

Our workshop wouldn’t have been as impactful without the dedication of the nursing students who led the practical stations. Their reflections provide a deeper understanding of the significance behind each skill and their commitment to nurturing future healthcare professionals:

Wong Wei Yi – Adult CPR Session

“CPR practical session opened my eyes to the need to equip both health practitioners and members of the public with lifesaving skills. Most bystanders would either be scared or reluctant to act in an emergency because they lack adequate training. Yet, basic interventions like calling the ambulance, identifying cardiac arrest, and operating an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can significantly boost one’s chances of survival.

As student nurses, it is required of us that we not only learn these skills but also educate and empower the community to respond confidently in emergencies. CPR and basic life support training empowers us to act early, direct effectively during emergencies, and provide patient safety. I realised from this experience how important it was to empower others with knowledge to create a more responsive and ready community.”

 Yong Shi Wei – Infant CPR Session

“Together with my classmate, Wong May Ann, we demonstrated the fundamentals of performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on infants—those under one year of age. I guided the participants through the proper techniques, manoeuvres, and crucial steps needed to save an infant’s life. It was inspiring to see the students filled with curiosity and amazement as they learned how infant CPR is performed. They actively participated in the hands-on session, asking insightful questions about the mechanisms of CPR, including its effectiveness and physiological impact.”

Wong May Ann – Infant CPR Session

“I believe that nursing is not only a profession but also a way of life. The nursing skills that I have learnt and gained from nursing school can be applied in daily life as well as during emergencies. As such, I am honoured to be able to teach and share my knowledge to other aspiring youths. The participants were intrigued by what student nurses learn, and I felt proud showing them. I sincerely hope they were able to gain some knowledge which they don’t normally encounter.”

 Chung Shuk Wei – PPE & Bandaging Techniques

“Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and basic bandaging techniques are crucial components of first aid and infection control in nursing. Proper use of PPE ensures the safety of healthcare workers and caregivers, while effective bandaging techniques help in wound management and injury prevention. This demonstration provides a step-by-step guide to the correct application of PPE and simple bandaging methods.” 

“For PPE, participating students get to try their hand on donning and doffing PPE which is something they have not had a chance to experience before. Everyone was very excited and proudly took pictures with their friends to keep as memories and shared on social media. While at another booth, they get to try out bandaging with roller bandage as well as triangle bandage which is very helpful for them if they are required to carry out first aid as first responders at an accident. They are also informed that Malaysia does not have Good Samaritan Law in place that protects bystanders that provided aid from legal repercussions when helping an ill person. However, a person who is professionally trained would be protected from any legal consequences as long as they act with reasonable care.”

Lee Mei Ying, who represented the Nursing Division in coordinating this event alongside the Marketing Department, extends her heartfelt appreciation to all nursing faculty and student volunteers for their outstanding dedication.

“Nursing is not confined to hospital care—it’s also about promoting health, preventing illness, and educating the public. As Malaysia moves toward a preventive healthcare model, it’s inspiring to see our future nurses stepping up as health advocates. Their enthusiasm and dedication reaffirm the importance of mentorship and knowledge-sharing between generations.”

She added,

“This event truly highlighted the power of intergenerational collaboration, where faculty guide and students lead the way forward with fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and compassion. Each generation—be it experienced educators, practicing nurses, or aspiring students—brings unique strengths. Working together, we build a stronger, more resilient healthcare workforce that meets the evolving needs of society.”

In addition to the students who led the sessions, we are also deeply grateful to the nursing faculty and dedicated student volunteers who worked behind the scenes to ensure the event ran smoothly. Their energy and teamwork helped create a warm, inspiring atmosphere for all attendees.

A special thank you goes out to:

• All Nursing Faculty from Nursing Division, School of Health Sciences, IMU University
• Chin Buey Lynn (NU 1/21)
• Wisdom Furaha Adram (NU 1/22)
• Clara Chin Xian Qing (NU 1/23)
• Pung Hui Jing (NU 1/24)
• Sean Chua Xuan (NU 1/24)

Your commitment and enthusiasm were invaluable in making this event a success. You have truly embodied the spirit of IMU Nursing—caring, professional, and future-focused.

The workshop aimed to challenge outdated perceptions of the nursing profession. Far from being limited to a supportive role, nursing is a dynamic, autonomous career that plays a pivotal role in patient care and the healthcare system as a whole.

Through this engaging session, IMU University showcased how nurses combine leadership, critical skills, and empathy to deliver holistic care. The workshop emphasized that nursing is not merely about assisting doctors—it is about making independent, impactful decisions that improve lives.

Written by students from NU 1/22 (Chung Shuk Wei, Yong Shi Wei, Wong May Ann, Wong Wei Yi)

Reviewed by Dr Lim Swee Geok & Lee Mei Ying