By Dr Than Lwin Tun
MINISTRY of Health (MOH), Myanmar, laid down two objectives: to enable every citizen to attain full life expectancy and enjoy longevity of life and to ensure that every citizen is free from diseases. To do that, the newly appointed trained nurses are one of the main implementing human resources.
The healthcare sector plays a crucial role in the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Nurses are the backbone of this system, providing not only medical care but also emotional support to patients. Nurse means that N It is essential to maintain a healthy work-life balance, seek support when needed, and practise self-care to sustain the energy and compassion you need to care for others.
The Union Minister for Health attended the ceremony of appointment of newly trained nurses as Government Staff on 24 December 2024 at MOH. At the ceremony, the Union Minister mentioned that all of you need to conduct duty reports to your respective areas of responsibility and provide healthcare to the public. You are not fully dressed until you wear a smile, and you must be confident in your quality and competence, as well as you must obey professional ethics. In this ceremony, 1,775 trained nurses were newly appointed.
When newly appointed trained nurses begin their careers, they need to focus on several fundamental principles to guide their practice. The following are some basic principles that are typically emphasized:
Patient-Centred Care
Focus on the individual: Nurses should provide care that respects and responds to the preferences, needs, and values of the patients.
Active listening: Pay attention to what patients say and understand their concerns and desires.
Involve patients in decision-making: Encourage patients to be involved in their care plans.
Clinical Competence
Develop proficiency: Nurses should maintain up-to-date knowledge of nursing practices, treatment protocols, and nursing skills.
Adhere to standards of care: Consistently apply evidence-based practices and hospital policies to ensure high standards of care.
Skill development: Regularly engage in training and development to improve technical skills, such as taking vital signs, administering medications, and using medical equipment.
Effective Communication and Public Relations
Clear communication with patients and families as well as the public: Nurses should explain medical terms and procedures in simple, understandable language.
Team collaboration: Communicate effectively with doctors, other nurses, and healthcare team members to provide coordinated care.
Documentation: Accurate and clear documentation of patient care and progress is vital for effective treatment.
Ethical Practice and Professionalism
Confidentiality: Nurses should respect patient confidentiality and maintain privacy in all situations.
Respect for dignity: Treat every patient with respect, regardless of their background, beliefs, or health condition.
Adherence to ethical principles: Follow the ethical guidelines for nursing practice, such as beneficence (doing good), non-maleficence (not harm), and justice (fairness).
Critical Thinking and Decision-Making
Assess situations carefully: Analyze patient information, symptoms, and outcomes to make informed decisions.
Problem-solving: Develop care plans based on evidence, patient needs, and potential risks.
Reflective practice: Regularly reflect on actions taken and seek ways to improve care delivery.
Time Management
Prioritization of tasks: Learn to manage workloads by prioritizing the most critical tasks, such as patient assessments and medication administration.
Efficient planning: Use organizational tools and systems to plan care routines and optimize efficiency.
Adaptability: Be flexible in adjusting schedules and plans based on the changing needs of patients.
Cultural Competence
Respect for diversity: Understand and respect patients’ cultural, social, and religious differences.
Adapt care accordingly: Modify care practices to be culturally sensitive and appropriate for each patient.
Patient Safety
Prevent harm: Focus on minimizing patient risks such as falls, infections, and medication errors.
Follow protocols: Adhere strictly to safety protocols in areas like infection control, hand hygiene, and safe medication administration.
Monitor for complications: Be alert in monitoring for any signs of patient deterioration and report them promptly.
Leadership and Responsibility
Taking initiative: Even as a newly appointed nurse, demonstrate leadership in situations that require quick decisions and actions.
Collaboration: Encourage teamwork and support others in delivering care.
Accountability: Be responsible for one’s actions, and recognize when to seek assistance from more experienced colleagues.
Lifelong Learning and Professional Development
Continuous education: Keep up with developments in healthcare by attending workshops, and seminars, and pursuing further qualifications.
Seek feedback: Actively seek constructive feedback from colleagues and mentors to improve your practice.
Engage in research activities to improve the quality of care and contribute to the advancement of the nursing profession.
It is with great joy and anticipation that we welcome the newly appointed trained nurses to our institution. In addition, we warmly welcome all of you to this dynamic and fulfilling field. The journey ahead will undoubtedly be filled with challenges, but it will also be filled with countless moments of joy, personal growth, and the satisfaction of making a difference in the lives of others. Thank you for choosing nursing as your profession, and we look forward to working with you as you embark on this incredible journey.
Once again, welcome, and best wishes for your future in nursing!
