Bandar Seri Begawan - The nursing profession constitutes the majority of the Ministry of Health workforce, standing at 39 per cent. Hence, if nurses fail to execute their duties in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures, it would affect the quality of services and the public would subsequently air their grievances.

This was pointed out by Minister of Health, Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Mohd Yusof during yesterday's launch of the Advanced Diploma Course in Health Service Management for the first intake (2013 - 2014).

Nurses have been urged to play a role in solving problems and grievances aired by patients/the public by utilising the systematic management tool, such as Quality Control Circle (KKC) to minimise complaints.

"I am convinced the nurses can tackle the problems, and also propose efficient and effective methods as they are more knowledgeable, more experienced and always dealing with patients and the working environment."

To face challenges and the increasing public expectations (particularly from patients), health professions should make innovative changes, and be pro-active and creative by adapting to the current climate so as to enhance their level of professionalism and specialisation, he added.

The Advanced Diploma Course in Health Service Management which started earlier this year marks yet another milestone and will enhance the level of health professionals, and aims for life-long learning.

All levels of nursing, especially senior nurses, should strive to enhance knowledge and skills by harnessing the nursing management course to upgrade the clinical leadership among nurses.

Course participants were urged not only to listen to the talks, but also to grab the opportunity to hold consultations and share information and experience, as well as produce proposals in fine tuning, improving services and healthcare.

The Advanced Diploma course runs for 12 months, with the first intake involving 12 acting senior nursing officers.

Besides equipping the course participants with knowledge on management and administration in healthcare, other objectives of the course are to guide more effectively the management aspect in healthcare, to ensure the effectiveness and more quality nursing administration by upholding ethics, values, morals and professionalism, and to integrate MIB in nursing management.

It is also to expose senior nurses to professional development and latest technology in healthcare services.

--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin