A Senior Lecturer at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) School of Nursing, Dr Nancy Enocentia Enyan-Edu, has called on female nurses to uphold high ethical values, integrity and dignity to help redeem the image of the profession.

The nursing profession, which is largely dominated by females, has come under criticism for the indiscipline and unprofessional behaviour of some nurses leading to loss of confidence, she said.

Addressing a “Women’s Summit” organised by the UCC Chapter of the Nursing Students’ Association (NUSA), Dr Enyan-Edu, therefore, tasked the nurses to help change the negative public perception about the profession.

It was on the theme: “Achieving Academic Excellence, the Role of the 21st Century Woman” and formed part of a week-long of activities to mark the 10th Anniversary celebration of the Association.

Dr Enyan-Edu said the youth, in this contemporary era, opted for the profession just to earn a living without taking time to read about what nursing entailed.

She said they later realised that it required more dedication and hard work with a lot of sympathy for the sick.

“Nursing is a unique profession, which requires high level of commitment, compassion, empathy and a demonstration of utmost care to achieve excellence in healthcare delivery,” she said.

“You must never harm patients emotionally by your actions, rather preserve your dignity and that of the patient.”

Dr Enyan-Edu encouraged the student nurses to strive for continuous professional development of their career while being guided by its Code of Ethics, principles and guidelines.

She urged them to have a vision, set values and develop the right character and attitude towards their work and do away with procrastination.

Oheneyere Gifty Anti, a Journalist and Host of the Stand Point Programme, told the students to build up confidence and consistently add value to themselves to achieve excellence in their work.

She encouraged them to stay focused, take calculated risks and work towards achieving their goals and aspirations.

“Do not lose sight of the insignificant things that will make you stand out. Stop the inferiority complex, encourage, empower and build yourself. Remember that the best form of revenge is to succeed,” she said.

Dr Evelyn Asamoah Ampofo, a Lecturer at the School of Nursing, UCC, urged the nurse trainees to make excellence and hard work their watchword.