This spring, students and faculty from Fox Valley Technical College and Carroll University had the incredible opportunity to travel to Zurich, Switzerland, as part of our Neurodiagnostic Technology (NDT) Study Abroad experience. One of the highlights of the trip was spending two days at Universitäts-Kinderspital Zürich, where we learned about pediatric neurodiagnostic care and observed firsthand how healthcare is delivered in a different cultural and clinical environment.
During our visit, I had the opportunity to provide an ABRET board preparation session for team members preparing for the ABRET credentialing examination and to complete the M&M examination process with several staff members. It was rewarding to exchange knowledge and strengthen international professional connections within the neurodiagnostic community.
From the moment we entered the hospital, it was clear that the facility was designed with patients and families in mind. Unlike many hospitals in the United States, the center is open, welcoming, and filled with natural light. The environment feels less like a traditional hospital and more like a healing space. Every employee we encountered actively greeted patients and families, creating an atmosphere of warmth and support.
One of my students, Ameilia Thomas, class of 2029, had a similar impression: “The welcoming atmosphere of the hospital was what stood out to me most. I was impressed by the effort made to make patients and their families feel comfortable during their visit. I also enjoyed seeing strong connections between the NDT technicians and their patients.”
Her fellow classmate, Jerzi Chaves, noted that the setting and the vibe were not “as tense as an American hospital,” especially with the warm lighting and variety of spaces where patients and family members could relax both inside and outside.
One of the most impressive observations was the culture of teamwork. Regardless of their role, staff members were eager to assist one another and ensure the best possible patient experience. If a patient or family member needed assistance, anyone nearby stepped in to help. This collaborative mindset was evident throughout the department and contributed significantly to the positive environment.
The neurodiagnostic technologists at the hospital possess extensive educational backgrounds, with most holding bachelor’s degrees in science-related fields or neurophysiology. Several are also pursuing master’s degrees specializing in epilepsy. Because of this rigorous educational preparation, professional registration requirements differ from those commonly seen in the United States. The technologists play an integral role in patient care, maintaining direct communication with neurologists and epilepsy specialists throughout testing procedures. Staff members complete comprehensive technical reports and collaborate closely with physicians during studies, creating a highly integrated care model.
Another unique aspect of the department was the use of a dedicated Neurodiagnostic Assistant (NDA) with more than 25 years of experience working with pediatric patients. The NDA plays a vital role in helping children feel comfortable during testing and in assisting with patient preparation and electrode application. Watching this level of specialized support demonstrated the value of experience and teamwork in pediatric neurodiagnostics.
Our students also observed several pediatric EEG procedures and gained insight into practices that differ from those commonly used in the United States. One particularly interesting observation involved the use of melatonin to encourage sleep during pediatric sleep EEG studies. This approach helped patients fall asleep naturally, allowing technologists to obtain sleep recordings without the need for sedation. It was an excellent example of how different healthcare systems approach patient care while maintaining a focus on safety and comfort.
Students from a variety of healthcare disciplines—including pre-medicine, nursing, neurodiagnostic technology, and radiology—participated in the experience.
Throughout our visit, they asked thoughtful questions, engaged with staff, and carefully observed workflow processes. Following the experience, many students reflected on what they would incorporate into their own future practice. They discussed not only clinical techniques but also the importance of workplace culture, communication, patient-centered design, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Perhaps the most valuable lesson from our time in Zurich was the importance of keeping an open mind. By experiencing healthcare through a different lens, students were challenged to think beyond traditional approaches and consider new possibilities for patient care and workplace design. The experience reinforced the value of adaptability, innovation, and lifelong learning—qualities that are essential for future healthcare professionals.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our hosts, Carlos and Beatrice, and the entire team at Universitäts-Kinderspital Zürich for sharing their knowledge, welcoming our students, and inspiring us through their commitment to excellence. Their generosity, transparency, and passion for patient care created an unforgettable learning experience for both students and faculty. Experiences like these remind us that while healthcare systems may differ around the world, the common goal of providing exceptional patient care unites us all.
Key Observations of a Swiss Neurodiagnostic Department and Hospital
- Facility is designed as a healing space, with lots of natural lighting and openness.
- Technologists maintain direct communication with neurologists and epilepsy specialists throughout testing.
- Teamwork trumps silos.
- Most technologists hold bachelor’s degrees in science-related fields or neurophysiology.
- The pediatric team includes a dedicated Neurodiagnostic Assistant to help children feel comfortable.
- Melatonin is used to encourage sleep during pediatric sleep EEG studies.
