…How to get adequate care for your ailments
…What the World Health Organisation says
By Suleiman Tajudeen
… Continued from last week
Delayed recognition of patient deterioration
Higher mortality rates
Prolonged hospital stays and higher costs
Poor wound healing and complications
Increased burden on families financially and emotionally
In Nigeria, poor nurse-to-patient ratios, under-resourcing, and burnout contribute to these effects. Globally, understaffing in low- and middle-income countries is a major cause.
How to Prevent Poor Nursing Care
Adequate staffing: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends 1 nurse per 4-6 patients. Nigeria needs to address nurse migration and training gaps.
Continuous education: Regular in-service training, updates on protocols, and simulation training.
Strong supervision & mentorship: Experienced nurses guiding junior staff.
Better working conditions: Fair pay, safety, manageable workloads to reduce burnout.
Accountability systems: Clear reporting for errors, non-punitive incident reporting, patient feedback channels.
Patient-centered care: Training nurses in communication, empathy, and cultural competence.
Technology: Use of EHRs, barcode medication systems, and checklists to reduce errors.
Policy and regulation: Strong enforcement by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria/NMC globally, with licensing and revalidation.
Conclusion: Nursing is the backbone of healthcare. Good nursing care saves lives and builds trust in the system, while poor care harms patients and the health system. The way forward for Nigeria and globally is investing in nurses – training, staffing, and working conditions – not just hospitals and drugs.
References
Aiken, L. H., Clarke, S. P., Sloane, D. M., Sochalski, J., & Silber, J. H. (2002). Hospital nurse staffing and patient mortality, nurse burnout, and job dissatisfaction. JAMA, 288(16), 1987–1993. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.288.16.1987
American Nurses Association. (2021). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice (4th ed.). ANA.
For questions and medical consultations, contact: Dr. Suleiman Tajudeen, CEO and Director of Clinical Psychology, Clear Mind Psychological Consult, Km 15, Badagry Expressway, Ojo, Lagos. +234 803 402 4457
