Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
MANICALAND Province is set to benefit from an increased number of nursing trainees studying closer home following the reopening of the Mt Selinda School of Nursing and Midwifery, which had closed in 2011.
Last week, 236 midwives and primary care nurses graduated from the institution.
Provincial Medical Director, Dr Munyaradzi Mukuzunga called on the graduates to be torchbearers of high standards expected in the health sector.
Dr Mukuzunga said despite the pressure and challenges associated with the job, the graduates should remain professional, civil and ethical in the discharge of their duties.
“To the midwives, you are the guardians of life. You provide more of the social and reproductive health services, caring for mothers throughout pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period. You are the difference between life and death for countless women in our communities. Our nurses are the first line of defence in places where doctors are few – you are the medical lifeline. Your role in community health, disease prevention and health promotion is indispensable.
“The discipline you have shown during training must continue. Maintain your composure under pressure. The health care environment is demanding and unpredictable. A disciplined nurse is a reliable nurse. As professionals you are expected to maintain high-level standards all the time, in how you speak, dress and treat patients and colleagues.
“Attain the latest knowledge and techniques and refer cases beyond your scope. Never allow personal challenges to compromise patient care. Patients place their lives in your hands, they trust you to be honest with them. Integrity means telling the truth even if it is difficult, handling medicines and supplies with accountability. Never abuse your position for personal gain. Be honest with patients about their conditions and colleagues about your mistakes. Remember every error is a learning opportunity. Be honest with yourself about your limitations. The nurses who are most respected are those who admit when they do not know and seek help,” said Dr Mukuzunga.
United Church of Christ in Zimbabwe president, Reverend John Matiza, said his church will continue to complement Government in critical areas such as health and education for the well-being of the population and development of the country.
“The church is working hand in glove with the Ministry of Health and Child Care in the provision of health, including training of personnel. As a church, we strive to provide education and health services in partnership with the Government. We want to transform our communities and we appeal to the locals to safeguard our infrastructure against vandalism and theft. The graduates have chosen a noble path, one that embodies the essence of selflessness and service. As a nurse you have the opportunity to heal the heart, mind, soul and body of patients. They may forget your name but they will never forget how you made them feel,” he said.
The graduates took an undertaking to uphold professional standards and ethics, serve humanity with compassion, dignity and respect, to protect life, alleviate suffering and promote health without discrimination.
