Nurses celebrate International Nurses Day by singing traditional gospel songs. Image source: Pretoria East Rekord
More than 100 nurses pledged to practise with dignity during International Nurses Day at Unisa on Thursday.
Prof Linda Cornwell, a director at the Unisa School of Social Sciences, said nurses played a critical role in combating HIV, Aids and TB.
“The role of nurses has become that of a preventative healthcare giver,” said Cornwell.
She also thanked higher learning institutions for educating a new generation of nurses.
“The backbone is the strongest bone that carries the body, therefore we [nurses] carry the healthcare system. There is a need for a stronger healthcare force,” said Mokoena.
Musima Meso, a nurse at Danville Clinic, said she was happy that nurses were honoured.
“This day reminds me of the day I decided to become a nurse; I wanted to serve patients with respect,” said Meso.
Phemelo Molefe, a nurse at Karenpark clinic, said she was encouraged by the speakers as they highlighted the important work nurses did on a daily basis.
“We were encouraged by the speakers and we can now do more to ensure we provide comprehensive healthcare to patients,” said Molefe.
Nurses also took a pledge to fulfil their roles and duties in their nursing profession.
This article first appeared on the Pretoria East Rekord on 12 May 2016 and is used by permission. You can read the original here.