Awkuzu Medical Centre CMD Warns Nurses Against Lateness, Absenteeism
By Ginika Oguji
The Chief Medical Director of Comprehensive Medical Centre, Awkuzu, Dr Adaobi Odina, has warned nurses at the facility against lateness, absenteeism and negligence of duty, stressing that quality patient care must remain the hospital’s top priority.
Odina gave the warning during a strategic meeting with nurses on Monday, July 20, following complaints from patients and their relatives over delays in treatment, particularly during night shifts, allegedly due to inadequate nursing coverage.
The CMD described healthcare delivery as a humanitarian service that requires commitment, compassion and prompt response to patients’ needs.
She warned that nurses who are repeatedly absent from duty or report late would face disciplinary action in line with the rules of the Anambra State Hospital Management Board and the Civil Service.
While acknowledging the manpower challenges facing the facility, Odina urged available nurses to remain committed to their responsibilities. She also commended staff of the maternity unit who often work beyond official hours to ensure that patients remain stable.
The hospital Matron, Mrs Appolonia Meze, disclosed that management would introduce a new monitoring system, including a review of the duty roster and spot checks by supervisors, to strengthen discipline and accountability among nurses.
Some nurses welcomed the directive but appealed to management to address staffing shortages, improve working equipment and facilitate the payment of hazard allowances.
Responding to their concerns, Odina assured the nurses that their requests would be forwarded to the appropriate authorities. She also urged doctors, nurses and other health workers to strengthen teamwork in order to improve service delivery at the facility.
Angela Oduche is of the Anambra State Ministry of Information and Value Reformation.
Ichie Times understands that the directive is part of efforts by the management of the medical centre to strengthen accountability and improve the quality and timeliness of healthcare delivery to patients.
