Internet Address: www.kfshrc.edu.sa/nursing
E mail: employment@kfshrc.edu.sa
List of Contents
History of Saudi Arabia 2,3
Religion and Legal System 4
Getting Here
Nursing at KFSH&RC 5 Processing 13
Vision and Values of Nursing Department 6 Baggage 13
Nursing Departments Arrival to Riyadh 13
General Nursing Orientation 14
Critical Care/EMS/Operating Room Nursing 7
Living in the Kingdom
Medical/Surgical/Maternal Nursing 7 Visa/Passport 15
Pediatric/ Oncology Nursing 7 Clothing 15
Ambulatory Care Nursing 8 Telephone/Mail 16
Internet Access 16
King Fahad National Centre for Children’s Time 16
Language 16
1
Cancer and Research 9
Calendar 16
Centre of Nusing Excellence and Develpment 9 Electrical Items/Electricity 16
Center for Distance Learning 10 Banks and Currency 17
Riyadh Beauty Shop/Hairdresser 17
Hospital Benefits Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Shopping 17
Social Life 18
Housing 11 Sports and Recreation 18
Relocation Allowance 11 Food/Dining Out 18
Leave Time 11 Hospital Transport 19
Airline Tickets 12 Driving 19
Medical Coverage 12
National and International Travel 12
Restrictions 20
Recreation Facilities 12
The Most Frequently Asked Questions 21
Final Checklist Before Departure 22
Introduction to the Arabic Language 22
History of Saudi Arabia
In the annals of the recent history of the Middle the simplicity of their ruling style. By 1788, the
East, few events have had such a long-lasting and Saudi State ruled over the entire Najd, the central
profound impact as one that took place some 250 plateau of the peninsula and, by the early years
years ago. In 1744 two men met in Dariyah, a of the 19th century, over most of the peninsula,
town of mud houses and date palm groves, above including the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
Wadi Hanifah in the heart of the Arabian
Peninsula. As a result of that meeting the two Another of the attributes that attracted loyal
formed an alliance to pursue ideals that set the followers to the Saudi State was the cohesion of
stage for the establishment of a state that would the ruling family and the smooth transfer of
later become synonymous with Islam, stability, power from one ruler to the next - unique
prosperity, and would enjoy recognition and characteristics at a time when most other ruling
influence in the far corners of the world. houses in the peninsula were steeped in factional
fighting and grabs for power. In the decades
2 During that meeting, Emir Muhammad Bin Saud, following the fateful meeting between the two
the ruler of Dariyah and the central Najd region great men, the Saudi State continued to extend
of the peninsula, and Sheikh Muhammad Bin its influence in a stable manner as one ruler
Abdul Wahhab, a Muslim scholar and reformer, peacefully succeeded another.
reached a compact to dedicate their lives to
restoring the pure teachings of Islam to the However, the calm was shattered by a renewed
Muslim community. That meeting linked the lives Ottoman campaign to extend its Middle Eastern
of the two men and their descendants entirely to Empire into the Arabian Peninsula. Ottoman
the pursuit of this lofty ideal, and in the process, armies captured parts of the Saudi State inland
established the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. as well as along the Arabian Gulf. With their
support, the Al-Rashids of Hail made a concerted
Within forty years of that fateful meeting, effort to overthrow the Saudi State. For the next
Muhammad Bin Saud and his son and successor, 20 years, the Saudi rulers, including Abdul
Abdul Aziz Saud, managed to garner the support Rahman Bin Faisal, fought to resist foreign
of numerous tribes attracted to the rulers of intrusion, eliminate the source of instability in
Dariyah by the purity of Islam they upheld and the peninsula and restore peace and security to
the Kingdom. Facing a much larger and better the warring tribes of Arabia into the modern A string of desalination plants and power
equipped army that enjoyed greater resources and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. generation complexes feed the urban and
manpower, Abdul Rahman Bin Faisal was forced industrial centers that have sprouted up all over
The primary emphasis of Saudi planning has
to abandon his struggle in 1891 and seek the Kingdom. Where industrial facilities were
been the development of the nation’s human
sanctuary with the Bedouin tribes in the Rub Al- once non-existent, there are now more than 2,300
resources to enable all citizens to achieve their
Khali, the vast desert in eastern Arabia. From factories and industrial complexes,
maximum potential and contribute to the
there, Abdul Rahman and his family traveled to manufacturing everything from vehicles to
country’s growth and progress. When King Fahad
Kuwait for shelter, where they stayed until computer circuit boards for domestic
became Saudi Arabia’s first Minister of Education
1902. Among his followers was his young son consumption, and exporting products to over 70
in 1954, there were fewer than 30,000 students in
Abdul Aziz Al Saud, already making his countries around the world. Agriculture, once
the country. Today, more than four million
mark as a fierce warrior for the cause of Islam limited to tiny farms in oases, is thriving. Self-
students are enrolled at 22,632 schools, and
and a natural leader of men. sufficient in many different farm and food
306,584 citizens are pursuing higher education at
products, the country now exports grains,
seven universities and 83 colleges. 3
Following the Al-Saud families’ departure in vegetables and processed food.
1891, the Rashid family took over Riyadh and
To ensure a healthy population, the Kingdom
established a governor and a garrison. To outside Similar success has been achieved in social
embarked on a similarly ambitious program to
observers, the struggle appeared to be over, and services, commerce, banking, sports, and in
build a modern health care system. There are now
the long rule of the Al-Saud forever ended. But almost all areas of human endeavor. Taking
more than 298 hospitals with 41,300 beds and 3,254
to the inhabitants of Najd and other parts of the strength from the example of King Abdul Aziz,
health care centers, compared with only a handful
former Saudi State, the Rashid rule only brought as well as the cherished tradition of service to
four decades ago.
into sharp contrast its shortcomings and Islam, the leaders of Saudi Arabia have achieved
highlighted the qualities that had made the Al- While paved roads were a rarity in the Kingdom much in such a short period of time. What has
Saud popular. some 50 years ago, there are now more than 26,137 enabled them to do so has been the ability to
miles of highways and major roads. Roads are just remain firmly rooted in the teachings of Islam
By the turn of the century, the young Abdul Aziz one part of the modern transportation and and their rich heritage, while at the same time
was planning a strategy to regain his patrimony. communication infrastructure established to adapting to meet the challenges and demands of
His night march into Riyadh, as the head of only facilitate growth and development. There are now a modern world.
40 followers, to retake the city garrison in 1902 is 21 ports, 25 airports and a sophisticated
now legendary, as is his 30-year campaign to unite telecommunications network.
Photo: AshfordPlatt
Religion and Legal System
I
slam is one of the world’s great
monotheistic religions. The followers of
Islam, called Muslims, believe in God, in
Arabic, Allah, and that Muhammad is His
Prophet. Today, the worldwide community of
Muslims number nearly one billion.
Historically, Saudi Arabia has occupied a
special place in the Islamic world. Indeed, it is
toward the sacred Ka’abah in Makkah that
Muslims turn devoutly in prayer five times a
day. The Holy Qur’an, the sacred scripture of
Islam, is universally recited in Arabic.
A Muslim has five obligations, called the Five
Pillars of Islam: first is shahadah, the
4 profession of faith, second is salah, praying
five times a day; third is zakat, almsgiving;
fourth is sawm, fasting during the month of
Ramadan; fifth is the Hajj, the pilgrimage to
Makkah. The Shari’ah, the Islamic code of law
based on the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah, is
the foundation of the legal system of Saudi
Arabia. The Holy Qur’an itself is considered
the constitution of the country and provides
ethical values and guidance.
Expatriates must do their utmost to respect the
feelings and beliefs of Muslims, and all prayer
calls must be respected. Non Muslims’ should
not stare at, or walk in front of people who are
praying, and should not walk over prayer
mats.
In Saudi Arabia, Islam is the only legally and
officially recognized religion.
Nursing at KFSH & RC
Why Join the Nursing Team at King
Faisal Specialist Hospital and nurses through clinical preceptorships, scholarships for baccalaureate study, advanced training
Research Centre? abroad and the creation of special opportunities for career advancement.
The King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Nursing Affairs is committed to continuous learning and offers a broad range of educational
Research Centre (KFSH & RC) situated in the programs. Staff are able to attend hospital sponsored offerings and participate in sponsored
center of Riyadh is a 583 bed teaching hospital. teleconferences. A number of the hospital’s senior nursing and medical personnel are
It provides tertiary health care for the citizens regularly invited to present papers at international conferences held at KFSH & RC as
of Saudi Arabia and the surrounding middle well as at other international venues.
eastern countries. The hospital is a
specialist centre which has gained a
worldwide reputation for its dedication
to advancing medical science and
research over the past twenty five years.
State of the art diagnostic and
therapeutic services are available in the 5
main hospital and at the King Fahad
National Centre for Children’s Cancer
and Research (CCC).
There are approximately 22,007
inpatient admissions and over 513,455
ambulatory care visits to the hospital
annually. A multicultural and
enthusiastic interdisciplinary
healthcare team originating from
more than 58 countries across the
globe provides this care. Out of a total
staff of approximately 6,487 working
at King Faisal, over 1,200 are
international professional nurses.
King Faisal Specialist Hospital and
Research Centre has a strong
commitment to Saudization. It focuses View of Main Hospital Entrance
on recruitment and retention of Saudi
Vision and Values of Nursing
Nursing Affairs is committed to excellence in leadership, education and research.
Nursing Affairs values reflect:
Respect (Privacy, Confidentiality, Fairness)
Accountability
Commitment
Collaboration (Teamwork & Partnership)
Education
Quality
6 Innovation
Nursing Organization
The Chief of Nursing Affairs leads the nursing team at King Faisal Specialist Hospital &
Research Centre and King Fahad National Centre for Children’s Cancer and Research (CCC).
The nursing department is organized into modules of clinical services which are led by
experienced nursing leaders who use performance improvement principles in the oversight
and management of these programs and resources. Head Nurses are responsible for the
twenty four hour/seven day week patient care delivery within their areas.
The patient care areas are grouped together as follows:
Critical Care/EMS/Operating Room Nursing
Medical/Surgical/Maternal Nursing
Pediatric/Oncology Nursing
Ambulatory Care Nursing
Nursing Departments
approximately 3,000 visits per month. With the and professional development through
exception of CCU and Medical Cardiology all comprehensive educational programs.
services cater for adult and pediatric patients.
Education Coordinators and assigned Nurse
The Operating Rooms provide perioperative
Clinicians plan and implement learning
care for approximately 900 patients on a
programs across the division. Educational
monthly basis (average weekly surgical
programs include nursing grand rounds,
volumes include 10 neurosurgeries and 25-30
surgical nursing focused inservices and unit
cardiac surgeries in addition to general surgical
specific inservices.
cases).
Pediatric/Oncology Nursing
Medical/Surgical/Maternal
Nursing This cluster of clinical services is made up of a
This cluster comprises a wide range of clinical combination of Pediatric and Oncology services
specialities including General Medical, and includes the Children’s Cancer Centre, a
Nephrology, Gastroenterology, Neurosurgery, specialist healthcare and research centre
Plastics, ENT and Transplant services. The dedicated exclusively to children with cancer.
Critical Care/EMS/ VIP unit is also included in this cluster as are 7
There are approximately two hundred and forty
Operating Room Nursing the OB/GYN units which comprise Labor and beds and over three hundred and fifty nursing
Delivery (L&D), Antenatal/Postpartum, staff employed across this service area.
The Critical Care Nursing Department has 130 Normal Newborn Nursery and Surgical
Gynaecology. Both L&D and the Antenatal/ Inpatient pediatric units on the main hospital
beds in 8 units,the Hyperbaric Oxygen
Postpartum unit care for mothers who have site care for children with a wide variety of
Therapy Unit as well as responsibility for both
medical conditions or pregnancy factors which Medical, Surgical, Hematologic and Oncologic
Cardiac and General Operating Rooms, Day
places them or their unborn child at “high-risk” disorders including Pediatric Bone Marrow
Procedure Centre (DPC) and the Emergency
for complications. Transplantation. The Children’s Cancer Centre
Department (EMS). Approximately six
provides both inpatient and outpatient services
hundred staff work across this cluster. There
As disease etiology within the kingdom offers to Pediatric Hematology/
are two Medical-Surgical Intensive Care Units,
exposure to rare, complex and diverse illness’ in Oncology patients.
Cardiac Surgery ICU , Pediatric ICU, Neonatal
adults and pediatrics, nursing in this area is
ICU, Coronary Care Unit, Cardiovascular Playrooms and play
highly rewarding.
Telemetry Unit for cardiac surgery patients and therapists are
a Medical Cardiology Telemetry Unit. Overall There are approximately three hundred and available across the
divisional services include heart, liver and twenty highly qualified staff working in the pediatric areas to
renal transplantation, all cardiac surgery cluster, many of whom hold speciality promote normal
(including ECMO and LVAD programs) and certification in their area of practice. Nurses childhood
neurosurgery. The DPC has 500 visits per within this service area are supported and development.
month while the EMS Department has encouraged in maintaining clinical competence
The Adult Oncology component of this service these visits are managed by nursing staff who patients per month and operates on a seven day
includes Hematology, Bone Marrow coordinate complicated testing schedules, basis. Procedures carried out in this area include
Transplantation, Neurology/Radiation assess patient compliance and teach patients ovum aspirations, embryo transfers, follicular
Oncology, Palliative Care and Medical Oncology. about their medical conditions. cyst aspirations, follicular and fetal reductions
and testicular biopsies.
The Oncology Clinics at the main hospital are Ambulatory Care also includes the
also included in this cluster. The clinics are Hemodialysis Unit, which has twelve acute and The Pediatric Clinic represents twelve
divided into Hematology/Oncology, Medical twenty chronic chairs. This unit is also involved subspecialty groups and has over 2,500 visits per
Oncology, Benign Hematology and Palliative in Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy. The month. Some of the more common presentations
Care. There are also Adult and Pediatric Bone Endoscopy Unit which has recently doubled in in this clinic include metabolic disorders, genetic
Marrow Transplant programs. These areas have capacity, provides out inpatient, outpatient, diseases and cardiovascular anomalies.
approximately 5,000 visits per month and the operating room and mobile procedures. These
nursing staff provide comprehensive care include endoscopy, bronchoscopy, E.R.C.P. as The Family Medicine Clinic deals with the
including the administration of chemotherapy, well as urodynamic tests. Average volume is primary care needs of employees and their
blood products and antibiotics. about 600 procedures per month. dependents. This population exceeds 18,000 and
the clinic has approximately 8,000 visits per
The Medical Clinics represent ten subspecialty
8 Nurses with experience in oncology are month. The services provided include
groups, including diabetic education, and have
preferred within this area, however, nurses with immunization, pre-employment physicals,
an average monthly volume of approximately
a strong medical or pediatric background who employee infection control surveillance, travel
6,000 patients. The Thyroid Cancer Program is
are interested in entering the field of oncology counseling, diabetic teaching, asthma control etc.
also managed by the Medical Clinic. The Pain
nursing and are willing to complete the required Nurse Practitioners manage the well baby clinic
Clinic manages chronic pain with the use of
course work are also welcome. International and the women’s health clinic.
TENS, medication and acupuncture.
certification in oncology nursing is available
through the United States Oncology Nursing The Surgical Clinics represents seven The Polyclinic sees approximately 4,000 patients
Society for those staff who wish to pursue these subspecialty groups including the Renal per month including medical, surgical and
qualifications. Transplant Program. Approximately 6,000 pediatric patients. The Protocol Clinic which
patients attend this clinic monthly. caters to the needs of the Royal Family and
Diplomats, offers nine subspecialties.
The Chronic Abdominal Peritoneal Dialysis Approximately 500 patients attend this clinic
Ambulatory Care Nursing
(CAPD) program manages both pediatric and every month.
adult patients. The staff involved in this program
Ambulatory Care Nursing is made up of Nursing in the Ambulatory Care setting is
play a major role in the management of
fourteen clinical areas that represent the provided on a team basis with all members
inpatients, outpatients and community patients.
management of over ninety subspecialty contributing to the delivery of high quality
clinics. This Ambulatory Care facility is one OB/GYN clinic deals with high-risk obstetrical patient care and education. Interpreters and
of the largest in the world with over 500,000 problems and has approximately 2,500 visits per Arabic speaking nurses are available to assist in
patient visits per year. Approximately 40% of month. The Infertility Clinic sees a further 3,000 teaching the patient population in Arabic.
programs and unit inservices designed to meet • Shock Syndromes
the needs of the nursing staff. The Centre also • Basic and Advanced Dysrythmia
provides scholarships and distance learning Interpretation Courses.
opportunities.
These programs incorporate principles of
The following courses are available to staff competency based education, evidence based
nurses: practice, critical thinking and intercultural
communication. Master’s prepared nurses
• Cultural Diversity
serve as faculty and coordinate educational
• Adult and Pediatric Physical Assessment
programs. Nurse Clinicians are available on
• Chemotherapy Certification
King Fahad National Centre for Children’s Cancer & Research units to provide inservices, mentorship and
• Nursing Grand Rounds
promote improved patient care. The Centre
• Preceptor Training
The King Fahad National Centre for • Critical Thinking
also provides clinical and managerial
Children’s Cancer and Research consultation services, test proctoring for
• Charge Nurse Course
international certification examinations and
• Intercultural Communication
The King Fahad National Centre for Children’s publishes HORIZONS - a monthly Nursing
• Congenital Cardiac Anomalies
Cancer and Research is the only children’s Affairs newsletter. 9
• Critical Care Course
cancer centre in Saudi Arabia & the Middle
East. It is located 20 kilometers north of Riyadh
on a twenty acre site. The centre is an
integrated part of the King Faisal Specialist
Hospital and Research Centre and provides
both inpatient and outpatient services to
Pediatric Hematology/Oncology patients.
There is a four bed ICU on this site also. The
hospital is modeled on the world renowned
St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in the
United States .
Centre of Nursing Excellence &
Development
There is a very strong emphasis on training
and development in nursing. The Centre of
Nursing Excellence and Development
provides competency based orientation,
continuing education, staff development Patients and Staff from Children’s Cancer Centre
Center for Distance Learning (CDL)
There are several Continuing A wide variety of general education subjects, textbooks and other printed materials, computer assisted
Education Unit (CEU) options instruction, audiovisual aids and library services are also available.
available to all KFSH & RC nursing
staff through the internet and the Whilst the hospital provides the resources to facilitate professional development, the costs associated in
many professional journals undertaking any distance learning course must be borne by the student.
including The American Journal of
Nursing which are available in the
hospital’s main library.
Center for Distance
Learning (CDL)
Staff interested in earning a
baccalaureate or master’s degree or
just taking review classes for
personal growth can avail of
10 opportunities to meet their
personal and professional
educational goals through the
Center for Distance Learning
(CDL).
The CDL staff are happy to offer
advice and support to students
undertaking courses.
Educational resources in a number
of formats are available to assist
nurses in meeting their learning
needs, including a regular schedule
of short review courses and
workshops related to nursing. Main Hospital Library
Hospital Benefits
Leave Time
You are entitled to receive 30 days annual
leave and a minimum of 20 days additional
holiday, giving a total of 50 vacation days per
year. This allows ample opportunity to take
extended trips to your home country or to
see the world and experience international
travel at its best. Please note that leave time
is calculated in calendar days.
Fifteen percent of staff on the nursing units
are able to take leave at any one time. You
should therefore ask your recruiting agent to
check whether you can have leave at a
particular time during your contract. Leave
is not granted until the 90 day probationary
11
period is completed.
Female Housing Located on the Hospital Compound
Housing
All international employees are entitled to receive free hospital housing. Single females must
live on the hospital compound and will most likely have to share with one other person. It is
important that you accurately complete the question on your application as to whether or not
you smoke, as you will be placed in housing with a person of the same preference. As you will
not be making rental or mortgage payments in the Kingdom, this gives yet another boost to
your monthly salary! The majority of housing units/apartment complexes have a swimming
pool and other recreational facilities available. All units are fully furnished and domestic
appliances as well as kitchenware are also provided.
Relocation Allowance
A relocation allowance is offered to all new international employees. This allowance is offered
both on initial hire and repatriation (some restrictions apply). The amount of this relocation
allowance depends upon your point of origin and your contract status. Furnished Apartment
Hospital Benefits
Airline Tickets Recreational Facilities
You will be entitled to both initial hire and The hospital has a number of recreational
repatriation tickets to and from your point of facilities open to you, including gymnasiums,
origin. In addition, each year at the end of your swimming pools, tennis courts, bowling alley
contract you will be entitled to a free round- and amenities centre. The Employee Social
trip ticket to your point of origin. Please note Club & Recreation Services offer a number of
that your first annual ticket will not be issued recreational courses, exercise programs and
until you have completed the first year of your organized trips, as well as a variety of other
contract. benefits to all employees.
Medical Coverage
Medical care is provided by the hospital’s
Family Health Department. It is available
13 without charge to all employees and elgible
dependents. Emergency dental care is provided
as necessary.
National and International
Travel
Saudi Arabia is a wonderful country to explore
from the red dunes just outside Riyadh to
Jeddah and the Red Sea on the West Coast.
Weekend trips can also be taken to Dubai and
Bahrain at a reasonable cost. Long haul flights
to Thailand take about 6 hours and if you are
planning to safari in Africa you can be there in
just over 12 hours from Riyadh. There is a
travel agency based on site or you may prefer
to use one of the many agents located in the
main city centre.
Getting here
Processing On Arrival to Riyadh arrival to the airport. Usually the authorities
in Jeddah take the passports of all passengers
Once your position has been approved by the On arrival to the King Fahad International travelling to Riyadh, and keep them until
hospital, your recruitment company will give Airport in Riyadh you will be met by a member shortly before arrival in Riyadh.
you a description of the unit to which you have of the hospital’s Public Relations Department
been assigned, a job description and an On the journey to the hospital from the airport,
(after passing through immigration). These
expected departure date. Your visa will be the nurse representative will give you an
representatives are based at the airport to assist
processed by the recruitment company on opportunity to book a telephone call home by
and greet new employees and also meet single
receipt of your satisfactory medical report. completing the relevant documentation. You
female staff returning from leave! Generally
They will also process your airline ticket. You will be able to make this call within forty eight
a member of the nursing staff also travels to
should receive your ticket a few days prior to hours of your arrival!
the airport to meet new employees.
departure, however, occasionally it is On arrival to your allocated housing you will
necessary for candidates to collect their ticket If you are travelling to Riyadh via Jeddah, it is
find a welcome food pack. This includes the
at the airport on the day of departure. perfectly normal for single women to be
main food items, as well as tea and coffee, that
separated from families and single men on
you might need for your first few days or until
Baggage 13
Baggage allowance is 20 Kg but you might
wish to take an amount greater than this. If
you choose to do so, please note that although
the hospital makes every effort to ensure that
there is help available to assist with the transfer
of your baggage, this is not always possible!
You should therefore be physically able to
carry/move your own bags and do remember
that most items are available to buy locally.
(You should also remember that there may be
an extra baggage charge and you might want
to think about sending some items as cargo!)
It is advisable to put your King Faisal address
on your luggage tags. Your recruitment
company should be able to give you details of
your address prior to departure. It is also
advisable to carry a change of clothes and some
essential items when you are travelling in case
of baggage delay.
Employees Relaxing in Al Ma’ather Park (located on the main hospital site)
General Nursing Orientation
you get a chance to visit one of the local ‘ups and downs’ in Riyadh too!). to start reviewing the material for your
supermarkets. pharmacology test and BCLS certification
During orientation you will be mainly in the
program before you arrive in Saudi Arabia. You
You will have time to rest after your arrival and classroom setting, reviewing and refreshing the
should therefore ensure that you receive a copy
prior to starting your orientation. The general skills and knowledge you already have. A
of the review material from your recruitment
hospital orientation commences on the Saturday written pharmacology exam is given covering
agent. If you are assigned to a critical care area,
evening following your arrival. This gives you areas of medication knowledge and
you will also be expected to take a basic
a little time to catch up on your jetlag. This first administration, IV therapy, and dosage
dysrhythmia interpretation test during your
meeting is an informal gathering of all new calculations. You will also be expected to certify
orientation. Your recruiter should also furnish
employees at an evening meal hosted by the in Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS). This course
you with the necessary preparation material.
hospital’s Public Relations Department. The will be given during orientation unless you have
Please do not worry about taking any of the tests,
formal public relations hospital orientation completed the American or Canadian Heart
as review sessions will be given prior to the
commences on the Sunday and continues Association Certification within the previous six
examinations.
through to Monday evening. During this time months. If this is the case you will need to
you will have a number of presentations from provide proof of certification. You are advised During orientation, you will be asked to produce
various hospital departments as well as having your current nursing license. If your license is
an opportunity to visit one of the local due for renewal, you should make the necessary
14
supermarkets and shopping complexes. arrangements prior to leaving home as nurses
are not allowed to practice at KFSH & RC
General Nursing Orientation without a valid nursing license.
Introductory classes on the culture of Saudi
The general nursing orientation (GNO)
Arabia will be given during orientation and you
commences on the Tuesday morning following
will also start learning about the policies and
your arrival. You should be prepared for hard
procedures at KFSH & RC during this period.
work with the emphasis on self-directed study.
In addition, you will be given plenty of tips on
However, it is planned that this introductory
how to adjust to life in Saudi Arabia.
phase of life at King Faisal will be rewarding and
fun. Prior to leaving the nursing orientation program
you will have a chance to meet with your Head
Although the structure of every orientation
Nurse and unit preceptor. The preceptor is
program is the same, each individual brings with
usually another Staff Nurse on your team who
them unique personal characteristics that add a
is assigned to assist and guide you once you start
richness of diversity to this learning experience.
working on your new unit. Over your first few
During this period you will meet new colleagues, weeks on the unit you will work with your
most importantly new friends who will support preceptor for approximately eight to eleven
you and depend on you as you go through some New Employees Practicing BCLS shifts before taking on your own caseload.
of life’s ups and downs together (yes, we have
Living in the Kingdom
Putting all the hard work aside, during this immediate and you can expect to be out of the slogans should not be worn outside of the
orientation period you will be encouraged to get country within a few hours.) housing complex.
together with your new colleagues and sample There is a charge for each Exit/Re-entry visa.
some of the local cuisine, check out the designer Visa’s are generally valid for two months from Outside the hospital compound, women generally
shops or visit the traditional souqs and the date of issue and are good for one trip only. wear an abaya, similar to a long black cloak, over
experience the fascinating local heritage! Just prior to your departure abroad, your pass- their normal clothes. Do not worry if you do not
port will be returned to you, in exchange for your have an abaya on arrival to the country as you will
Visas/Passport iqama. be able to purchase one at a very reasonable price
in one of the hospital shops . You do not have to
Single women must be met at the airport by their wear an abaya on the hospital grounds. Generally
Your work visa will be processed through your
employer or sponsor on return to the Kingdom. you will not have to wear a
recruitment agent. Visas are issued for reasons
The hospital’s Public Relations Department scarf, either on or outside
of business/work, visitation or religion (for Hajj).
make the necessary arrangements to meet all fe- the hospital compound,
Depending on the employment contract, visas
male travelers based on the submitted travel itin- but it is advisable to
can be issued for visits by parents or children.
erary of the staff member. carry one in your
Kingdom regulations state that all passports purse should you be
must be held by the employer or sponsor, which Clothing requested to wear 15
in your case will be KFSH & RC. In place of one.
your passport you will be issued an iqama or Nursing staff are provided with white uniforms
resident identity card. The iqama must be carried (tunic and trousers), free of charge, by the Although some
at all times when living or traveling in the hospital. As your uniforms are made to order, Saudi women
Kingdom. All dependents (i.e. wife and children) you are advised to bring one of your uniforms choose to wear
are listed at the back of the husband’s/father’s from home with you in case of any delays in a face veil,
iqama. Dependants should carry a photocopy obtaining your supply. All nursing personnel expatriate
of it with them at all times. Do not worry about assigned to clinical areas must wear white, women are not
giving up your passport as an iqama is issued closed, soft-soled shoes. White trainers/joggers expected to do
to all expatriate employees with valid work are acceptable. so.
permits.
For non-uniformed staff, the dress code is
If you wish to leave the country for business or modest and conservative. Generally speaking
pleasure, you will require an Exit/Re-entry visa, hemlines should be no shorter than mid-calf,
which can be obtained for you by the hospital. forearms should be covered and the attire should
You should note that the application and be loose fitting. Dresses or skirts with slits that
processing of the visa is not automatic or extend above mid-calf should not be worn and,
immediate. Each trip out of the Kingdom must blouses and dresses should be properly
be carefully planned and timed to allow for Exit/ buttoned. Trousers suits may be worn to work.
Re-entry visa approval. (Should you need to Tight jeans, leggings and shorts or tee shirts with
take emergency leave, the processing of a visa is
In your living area or private housing Alternatively, on payment of a deposit, it is Time
complexes, you may wear comfortable possible to have an international line. Should
recreational clothing, should you wish. you not wish to avail of either of these services, Saudi Arabia is on Greenwich Mean Time plus
there are a number of card phones available two/three hours.
For men, the dress tone is conservative. There across the hospital site.
are fewer restrictions however, shorts, bare- Language
chests and singlets or vest tops without shirts Fax machines and answerphone machines are
are not acceptable in public. The only jewelry available for purchase locally and may be in- The primary language of the hospital is English.
that should be worn is a watch and/or wedding stalled in your apartment or housing unit. For employees wishing to learn Arabic, there are
ring. Men should not wear earrings or ponytails.
a number of opportunities available both within
Normal mail delivery takes about two to three the hospital and externally.
During winter the weather gets colder so you
weeks to get to and from Saudi Arabia. You
are advised to bring a few jumpers/sweaters and
should bring stamps from your home country Calendar
a jacket. In addition, it is advisable to bring a
as you may be able to ask someone travelling
light rain jacket and an umbrella (believe it or
not!). home to post your letters when they go out on
Both the Hijhrah and Gregorian calendar are
leave.
widely used throughout the hospital. The
16 Riyadh has an abundance of shops specializing Hijhrah calendar year is eleven days shorter than
in materials and there are many local Internet Access the Gregorian calendar. All contracts are dated,
dressmakers,who will copy any item of clothing and monthly salaries are paid according to the
or pattern, if measurements are provided. The hospital has e-mail access for staff wishing
Hijhrah calendar.
to keep in contact with home, however access is
Social life in Riyadh may include both formal limited to certain times. If you are intending to
and informal events, so a variety of casual and
Electrical Items/Electricity
maintain electronic contact with your friends and
evening dress is advised. The normal clothes family, you may wish to register with a provider
you wear at home are sufficient for most social TV’s are provided in all hospital housing and
i.e. hotmail/ yahoo prior to leaving home. This
events. cable TV is available for a monthly charge. Cable
will enable you to give your family and friends
channels include Super Movies, Hollywood
your contact e-mail address before leaving.
Channel, Star World, MTV, Fillipino Channel,
Telephones/Mail
CNN, BBC World, etc.
Employees who have access to their own
It is possible to call all apartments/housing units computers and live in hospital housing can avail
Videos and stereo equipment are available to buy
directly without going through the main hospital of the internet/electronic mail service from
locally , and are generally slightly cheaper than
switchboard. Local telephone calls are free and home. There is a monthly charge for this service.
back home. The electrical current is mainly 110V
you may dial directly from your housing unit/
but 220V is sometimes available.
apartment. If you wish to make an international
call, it can be booked with the hospital’s
international switchboard operator.
Banks & Currency Shopping
There are several branches of international There are several world class shopping Music cassettes, CD’s and videos can be
commercial banks available in Riyadh. These centers available in Riyadh which have purchased at supermarkets and music
banks maintain normal working hours and a wide range of shops offering clothes, stores. However, some music stores do
offer most routinely available commercial stationery, shoes, jewelry, gifts, not permit women to enter unless
banking services. The currency of the cosmetics, perfumes, toiletries, accompanied by a male. Latest CD,
Kingdom is the Saudi Riyal. Cash is generally electrical goods, pharmaceutical tape and video releases from top
preferred in shops, however, the larger shops supplies and so forth. In addition, artists are readily available,
as well as hotels and restaurants generally there are a number of high street however, all videos for sale or rental
accept major credit cards. ATM cards are shops such as Next and Mothercare, are censored.
issued to all bank account holders and department stores such as the
machines are widely available. world famous Harvey Nicholls Furniture and household items
and designer clothes shops such as are available at stores such as
You should bring enough cash with you to last
Gianni Versace, Dior, Armani, IKEA and BHS (British Home 17
for at least three to four weeks. If possible it is
Escada and many more. Prices are Stores). Arts and crafts supply
advisable to have your money changed into
generally a little higher than at stores cater to a wide variety of
Saudi Riyals prior to travelling, otherwise it is
best to bring US dollars. If you have a per- home for highstreet and designer craft needs. There are many
sonal identification number for your credit clothing. As the majority of shop large bookshops also available
card, it is possible to withdraw money from assistants are male, it is not which carry a wide range of
one of the ATM machines on site. possible to try on clothes in publications. In addition,
shops visited by both men and gold and luxury carpets are
women, but it is possible to also readily available at
return unsuitable purchases. much lower prices than at
home.
Beauty Shop/Hairdresser
There is a beauty shop, hairdressers and barber
shop available on site.
Social Life welcome to use all facilities during the Riyadh and it is therefore not surprising that
respective scheduled times. there are over four hundred registered
Like anywhere else in the world, your social life restaurants across the city. If you only want a
There are plenty of sporting opportunites in quick snack, the city is dotted with fast food
is what you make of it. Saudi Arabia offers
Riyadh. Many private health clubs offer outlets including McDonald’s, Burger King,
diverse terrain and plenty of open space for
excellent facilities, such as swimming, tennis, Pizza Hut, Kenny Rodgers Restaurants and
enjoyment. There are aspects of Arabic life to
bowling, billiards, gym, sauna, squash and Kentucky Fried Chicken.
discover in cities, villages, and deserts around
golf. However, in most cases membership in
Riyadh. You can camp under the moon and the
these clubs is only extended to men. For the Most restaurants have two sections - ‘men
stars, explore a wadi, climb to the top of a red
serious joggers and power walkers, the only’ and a ‘family section’. Single women and
sand dune, examine desert flora, hunt for desert
Diplomatic Quarter has excellent running and married couples with or without children eat
diamonds, or sit around a camp fire. The choices
walking trails. together in the family section. Restaurants
are really endless!
generally close during prayer times, however,
Scuba diving is very popular in the Arabian if you are in a restaurant when a prayer call
There are many festivities and national sites Gulf and the Red Sea. Both PADI and BSAC occurs, you are usually allowed to stay but you
worth visiting including Dira Square, Musmak have associations in Riyadh and lessons are will not be able to place any additional food
Fortress, Murabba Palace, Dir’iyyah, Janadriyah available locally.
18 or beverage orders until after the prayer has
Festival, Camel Races, Horse Races and Riyadh
finished.
Zoo . The hospital’s Social Club arranges visits Horseback riding lessons are also available.
to a number of these sites/events.
If you are interested in participating in any of
Cinemas, discos, dancing halls and bars are not the above recreational activities you should
allowed within the Kingdom. bring the necessary sports equipment/cloth-
ing. Otherwise you can purchase sports
Sports and Recreation equipment and clothing locally if preferred.
The hospital provides a Food/Dining Out
variety of recreational
facilities and equipment for Supermarkets carry a range of products similar
employees and their to what can be found back home and you can
dependents. Activities find anything from weight watchers meals to
include aerobic classes, an international range of cheeses in any store.
barbecues, field trips, There is a mini market on the hospital site
holiday excursions (both in- which stocks a wide range of grocery and
Kingdom and out-of-Kingdom), bowling, team delicatessen products.
tournaments, squash, tennis and racquetball to
name but a few. Both men and women are Eating forms a large part of the social scene in
Local Al Azziza Supermarket
Hospital Transport
The hospital transportation service operates a
shuttle bus system. Scheduled buses run
almost every hour and drop passengers at main
shopping areas and residential complexes.
There are public buses operating in Riyadh but
they are generally for men only. Taxis are
relatively inexpensive and plentiful and most
drivers speak English.
Driving
In Saudi Arabia, driving is on the right-hand
side of the road. A Saudi driver’s license will
be issued only to males holding a valid driver’s 19
license from their country of origin. All
applicants are required to take a blood test and
an eye test. As women are not permitted to
drive in Saudi Arabia, the hospital has its own
limousine service with fixed charges to popular
Hospital Shuttle Bus
drop off points.
Photo: AshfordPlatt
20
Restrictions
There are restrictions on certain items both when coming into and living in the country. The forbidden items
include alcohol, narcotics, weapons, ammunition, pork, religious icons and pornography. Prescription drugs must
be accompanied by a prescription.
The Saudi drug laws are very strict. Anyone convicted of smuggling drugs will face the death penalty. The pen-
alty for illegal possession of drugs is 5 to 10 years in prison and a fine of SR10,000. The penalty for illegal use of
drugs is 2 years in prison.
Drinking alcohol is forbidden in Saudi Arabia. If you are found guilty of drinking, possessing, manufacturing or
distributing alcohol, the penalty is a fine and jail term, and afterwards, deportation to the country of origin.
Photography is restricted in Saudi Arabia, therefore be careful not to take pictures at the airport on arrival!
The Most Frequently Asked Questions!
Do I need medical insurance?
This is your own choice but medical care is provided at the hospital and is available without charge to all employees and eligible dependents.
Emergency dental care is provided if necessary.
Do I get paid if I need to take sick leave?
In the event of a non-work related disability, injury or illness, an employee shall be granted full pay for a maximum of 30 calendar days and 75%
of full pay for an additional 60 calendar days in each service year. Any sickness in excess of two days shall require an acceptable medical
verification of illness, otherwise such absence will be treated as leave without pay.
What if there is a problem with my roommate?
If you do encounter problems with your roommate, you are encouraged to bring it to the attention of your orientation leader. These kind of
problems are unfortunate and every effort is made to resolve the problem as soon as possible . For problems arising after nursing orientation,
the Nursing Department encourages all employees to bring such issues to the attention of their Head Nurse, if they cannot be resolved through 21
normal processes.
What if I should decide to end my contract?
An employee may at any time terminate their contract by submitting a written resignation to the hospital. Expatriate employees are required
to give sixty days notice and all Saudi employees are required to give thirty days notice, prior to the effective date of proposed termination.
Failure to provide adequate notice will result in a penalty, equal to fifteen days basic salary.
Who should my family contact if there is an emergency and I cannot be reached?
Anyone wishing to make emergency contact should telephone the main hospital switchboard and request to be connected to your nursing
unit. You should ensure that your family knows the area you are assigned to as well as the hospital telephone number [(966 1) 464 7272 ]prior
to your departure. The Head Nurse or Charge Nurse on your unit should be their first point of contact. Nursing Supervisors should be contacted
via the main hospital switchboard during evenings/ nights / weekends.
What happens if I need to take emergency leave?
In the event of a death of an employee’s natural parent, spouse or child, expatriate employees will be eligible for 7 days leave with pay, if
travelling, and 3 days if remaining within the Kingdom. In the event of the employee travelling, s/he will be reimbursed in cash for the ticket
upon return from leave, on producing the original death certificate. If an employee fails to provide full evidence of the death upon return,
s/he will not be reimbursed. Staff needing to leave the kingdom in an emergency can expect to be able to do so within a few hours.
Final Checklist Before Departure
Prior to leaving you should ensure that your Hello
Recruitment Agency has given you A Taste of Arabic Salam Alakum
the following information:
Good morning
Sabahh al-khair
Job description
Response:
Sabahh al- noor
Unit description
Good night
Pharmacology Review Pack
Tesbahh aala-khair
Basic Cardiac Life Support Preparation Manual Thank you
Shukran
Basic Dysrythmia Interpretation Preparation
Manual (if hired to a critical care area) Don’t mention it
Aafwan
22
Good bye
As well as your personal items Maasalamma
please make sure that you remember to
bring the following items: How are you?
Kaif hhalak (M)?
Current nursing license Kaif hhalek (F)?
Photo: AshfordPlatt
Nurses uniform Very well, thank you
Tayeb al-hhamdulillah (M)
At least ten color passport photographs Tayeba al-hhamdullillah(F)
Stethoscope, if applicable for your position You look better today
Inta ahhsan il youm
Your recruitment agent should give you
two envelopes to hand carry – one marked Did you sleep well?
‘Family Medicine’ and the other ‘Personnel’ Nomt kwayiss?
I hope you will feel better
soon
Salamatak
Yes Nom No La
Food for thought!
Photo: AshfordPlatt
My father thought it was a bit odd That Saudi Arabia seemed like a mysterious land.
That I wanted to work in a place called Riyadh But I have grown much and begun to understand.
He asked me why I wanted to go What an opportunity it has been for me
I told him I felt I needed to grow. to work with nurses from each country.
I want to travel, I want to explore India, Egypt, Philippines and Sudan
California is nice, but there must be more. England, Ireland and Pakistan.
No taxes to pay, Europe a short distance away Canada, Sweden, Australia, the States
What more did he want to know? Holland, Germany and the United Emirates.
The patients too are a varied mix
So on Saudia I boarded for an endless flight. from princess to bedouins who chew on sticks.
Through a cloudy and starless moonlit night.
The woman to my left was covered in black. International nursing in a setting such as this
I tried not to stare when she opened her sack. Is an opportunity I’m glad that I did not miss.
She offered me dates and I took one I’ve grown as a person by working at this place.
And practicing my Arabic I said “Shukran.” Dealing with people of a very different race.
She immediately chattered in fluent Arabic
But I wanted to tell her very quick I’m not the same person that I used to be
That her language I did not understand I’ve changed my way of thinking, you see,
Since I was brand new to her exotic land. It’s been exciting, it’s been fun
In this land of sand and sun.
And then I began to work on B3-1 While California deals with draught and flood
A medical floor with lots to do. Here in Riyadh we deal with the occasional scud.
The days seemed to fly as I worked on the floor
Each day picking up a few words more. So now when my fathers asks when I’ll return
I’ve learned a great deal about the culture here. I tell him there’s still so much to learn
And one thing has become perfectly clear. I often wonder what lies in store for me
As I begin contract year number three!
Vicki Balma, RN
Written in 1992
Produced by Nursing Recruitment
Designed by the Department of Photo-Graphics
King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre
September 2000