‘Nurses at the centre of NHI success’
THE successful implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI) relies heavily on the support and empowerment of nurses, says the Public Servants Association (PSA). Marking International Nurses Day yesterday, the organisation expressed concern about the profound challenges facing this critical sector of the South African workforce.
Nurses Day coincides with the anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, regarded as the founder of modern nursing.
“South Africa is experiencing a notable shortage of nursing professionals, putting strain on the healthcare system.
“The healthcare system is heavily reliant on an ageing nursing workforce without recruiting new nurses. This looming crisis needs to be addressed urgently,” the PSA said.
“In addition, the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme represents a crucial time to address systemic inequalities in the healthcare system and improve access to quality care for all South Africans. The PSA urged the government to prioritise the well-being of nurses by allocating adequate funding to improve staffing levels, infrastructure, and resources in healthcare facilities.
“Measures must be implemented to address safety concerns at hospitals and clinics,” they added.
“Encouraging high-school learners and males to pursue a career in nursing will assist with shortages and the age gap in the field. Opportunities for training, mentorship, and
career advancement should be made available for nurses to enhance their skills and knowledge. Nurses should be actively involved in the development and implementation of healthcare policies, including the NHI, to ensure
that their perspectives and expertise are considered,” the PSA said.
Championing the message that “Wellness Starts with Me”, nurses from Karl Bremer and Tygerberg hospitals aimed to inspire all to prioritise selfcare and make their health a priority.
Community service practitioner Raymond Duncan from Tygerberg Hospital highlighted the importance of self-care for nurses as well as self-compassion for the nursing profession.
“We bear the weight of our patients' feelings, thoughts and actions within the healthcare setting. This being said, we must make certain we are comforted ourselves before we can comfort others and help bear our patients' burdens,” Duncan said.
“We arrive at work every day and we hope to do our best, we want to do our best. We are often in high-pressure situations, and we ask for compassion and understanding, as we are only human.
“This is why taking time to rest, and recharge is important. Whether you're a nurse or a teacher or a student, self-care is important for our health and happiness and it's an inside job,” Duncan said.
The City honoured the hundreds of nurses in its employ for their role in building healthier communities.
“The City has approximately 700 nurses in its employ. In the past year they've seen to thousands of people who needed care, attention and comfort,”
said the Mayco member for community services and health, Patricia van der Ross.
“These include visits from some of our youngest residents, pregnant women and elderly persons.
“Our nurses provide more than education and issue medication. They also promote healthy practices and guide families to find the right referrals for other services,” Van der Ross said.
The City lauded its nursing staff at an event in Brackenfell, where the programme included a number of activities.
Ten nurses lit candles, then led a procession before the contingent of nurses renewed their pledge to the nursing service.