International Nurses’ Day celebrated in Kohima
Morung Express News
Kohima | May 12
The International Nurses’ Day was celebrated on May 12 in Kohima at Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) with Dr. Neikiesalie Nicky Kire, Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change as the chief guest.
Vilhoulenuo Liezietsu, Deputy Director (Nursing), who gave the introduction to the theme ‘Nurses : A force for change: Improving health systems’ resilience’ expressed the need for strong and resilient health systems to respond effectively to realize the United Nations Sustainable Development.
Nurses comprise the single largest group of health professionals with a presence in all settings, thus making an impact on the resilience of health systems.
“In the busy life of most practicing nurses, thinking about how we can support and strengthen the health system we work in, it is not a common activity. Yet we need to develop our thinking, planning and profile in this important area is all too evident. We are a vital force for the changes that the system needs,” highlighted Liezietsu.
“Let us rededicate ourselves that we change for the better and not for worse,” stated Dr. Nicky Kire during the celebration. Talking about the prospects of working as nurses which are in huge demand abroad, Kire encouraged the nurses not just to settle for jobs in the Nagaland but also to pursue work outside which offers better opportunities and salaries.
“The door is open for you to go abroad but the most important point is you must be willing to work hard,” added Dr. Kire who also urged parents to give their children space to decide their careers and to allow the children to work in the profession they enjoy.
Dr. Kire also remarked that when it comes to dealing with patients, Nagas are second to none. Kire said that the nursing profession has improved drastically over the years and urged the nurses to take responsibility for everything they do because there is satisfaction when one is able to revive and recover a person.
“Don’t have regrets for what you have not done. Take full responsibility and do as much as you can. Ease their pain and mind so that they are prepared to get better,” stated Kire. Encouraging Doctors to build better relationships with Nurses, Kire said, “We are a fraternity and we have to work together. We need each other.” Kire also expressed concern over doctors neglecting their service which has become a ‘sad affair’.
Liezietsu who focused on the theme of the event highlighted on the 17 sustainable development goals, 13 health targets, global strategy on human resources for health: workforce 2030, health system resilience, key elements for a resilient health system and the role of nurses who are at the core of resilience.
The action plan to strengthen and improve the health system and developing resilience was also outlined. Three priority areas were further pointed out namely Nurses’ role in relation to the adoption of digital technologies, demonstrating quality and impact at all levels of governance and policy making, and system leadership.
