Nurses tipped on compassion in healthcare service delivery
Women nurses have been urged to radiate positivity and compassion in their patient care approach to elevate the quality of healthcare delivery in the country.
In Uganda, women nurses are being called upon to reshape their interactions with patients, infusing hope and compassion into every encounter to elevate the standard of healthcare services in the nation.
This appeal arises from growing concerns over negative perceptions surrounding the conduct of female nurses, particularly in their interactions with patients and their families.
Lilian Nuwabeine, a nursing expert and healthcare continuing professional development coordinator at Aga Khan University, highlights that while only a small percentage of nurses are consistently outstanding performers, the majority are capable of enhancing their approach to patient care by cultivating a positive attitude.
According to Nuwabeine, fostering a positive demeanor when interacting with patients and colleagues is paramount to building trust and goodwill.
“What went wrong? and what did we do for patients that has left them with no option but to speak ill about the conduct of midwives and nurses. Make patients speak good about you," she said.
Reflecting on the current state of patient-provider relationships, Ms Nuwabeine said it was important to elicit positive feedback from patients through compassionate care.
She stressed the need for nurses and midwives to be proactive in creating a nurturing environment that promotes healing and instills confidence in patients.
"“Bring a light and shine it wherever you are,” Ms Nuwabeine said.
In line with the global celebration of Nurses and Midwives Day slated for May 12 under the theme, "Fostering Soft Skills in Healthcare," Winnie Nabukeera, chief executive of Little Winnie Foundation, underscored the significance of soft skills in the nursing profession.
Ms Nabukeera said beyond clinical expertise, cultivating soft skills such as empathy and communication is essential for fostering a positive workplace culture and enhancing patient outcomes.
“Training nurses and midwives in soft skills is about character traits. Soft skills are character traits that are going to help you a better person get along with others at workplace.
And these are things that we must know and they are not taught in schools, not even home and not in communities. But character traits within you that are going to make you a better person”"
Julius Ojuka, principal nursing officer at Kiwoko Hospital in Nakaseke, spoke of the role of "soft skills" in promoting harmony and cooperation among healthcare professionals.
He said there was a need for nurses and midwives to embrace qualities that promote mutual respect and understanding in their daily interactions.
Recognising the pivotal role of nursing and midwifery in healthcare delivery, it is imperative for practitioners to adapt to evolving patient needs and expectations.
By embracing creativity and innovation, healthcare professionals can ensure that the delivery of care is not only effective but also enriching for both providers and patients alike.
