Kathmandu, May 13
The Chairperson of the Nepal Nursing Association (NNA), Prof Man Kumari Rai, has demanded the government increase the nursing quota.
During a programme organised to mark the 14th National Convention of NNA and International Nursing Day on Sunday, Chairperson Rai informed that the number of nurses was inadequate compared to patient flow. “If the government increases nursing quota, it creates employment and ensures quality service to the patients,” she reminded.
Rai also expressed worry over meagre facilities to which the government needs to pay heed.
On the occasion, Hira Kumari Niraula, Director of the Nursing and Social Security Division under the Department of Health, underlined the need for augmenting investment in nursing in Nepal. “Nursing schemes have been expanded eg in schools, which need more number of such caregivers. This scheme has been proved beneficial for school children’s physical and mental health,” she reminded.
Similarly, the Assistant Dean (administration) at Institute of Medicine, TU, Prof Takma KC, argued investment in nurses will boost the country’s economy. “Education, training, employment and facilities are the areas that warrant government’s proper attention,” added.
Nepal Medical Association’s Chairman Dr Anil Bikram Karki expressed worry about the future of health workers although many health and medical workers are produced every year within the country.
According to NNA, there are 82,471 nurses in Nepal now. Among them, 1,507 are specialist nurses. The government sector has employed 18,000 nurses while the private sector also employs in similar number.
