International Nurses Day: TN govt nurses may get smart, colourful uniforms

CHENNAI: Short pinafore, long stockings, cap and belle shoes – this all-white ensemble of nurses’ uniform has been there for long. But government nurses in Tamil Nadu have petitioned the health department seeking to change the attair.

On Friday, the eve of the International Day for Nurses, health minister C Vijay Baskar said a committee under Tamil Nadu Health Systems project director P Uma Maheswari would ensure that nurses have smart scrubs and sneakers that will help them stay comfortable during their long hours of work.

“They wanted an outfit that will keep them at ease while they are working with modern equipment. The committee will come out with their options soon,” he said after presenting awards to 251 nurses.

Many nurses couldn’t resist their smiles. “Almost all private hospitals have moved on to more colourful scrubs. It’s not just about being in vogue, but about staying at ease. Many nurses are so conscious that they keep pulling their dress down even when they are at emergencies. Comfortable dress and shoes will better patient outcomes,” said 34-year-old R Selvi, who works as a senior nurse.

But what made some nurses happier was a long bridge course, promotions and more job opportunities. The state is working with the Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University for a bridge course – diploma to degree.

“Diploma holder study for three years while degree holders study for four years. The bridge course will offer one-year intensive training for diploma holders covering all the subject they haven't studied so they can be awarded degree,” he said amidst thundering applause. The course material prepared by the university would be sent to the national nursing council for approval, he said.

The government is in the process of preparing a list nurses for promotion and recruitment of fresher's, he said. The state medical recruitment board has so far appointed 9,533 nurses.

Ref :

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/international-nurses-day-tn-govt-nurses-may-get-smart-colourful-uniforms/articleshow/64124769.cms

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Mahalingam A / TwinTech Academy Chennai / mahali@mahali.in