By Ginika Oguji
The Chief Medical Director (CMD) 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 overriding priority.
Odina gave the warning during a strategic meeting with nurses on July 20, following complaints from patients and their relatives over delays in treatment, particularly during night shifts, arising from inadequate nursing coverage.
She described healthcare as a humanitarian service that demands commitment, compassion and prompt response to patients’ needs.
“Punctuality and dedication are not negotiable. Any nurse found absent from duty or repeatedly reporting late will face disciplinary action in line with the Anambra State Hospital Management Board and Civil Service rules,” she said.
While acknowledging the hospital’s manpower challenges, the CMD urged the available nurses to remain dedicated to their responsibilities and commended staff in the maternity unit who often stay beyond official hours to ensure patients are stable.
The hospital’s Matron, Mrs Appolonia Meze, said management would immediately introduce a new monitoring system, including a review of the duty roster and supervisors’ spot checks, 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, Odina assured the nurses that their concerns would be forwarded to the appropriate authorities and urged doctors, nurses and other health workers to strengthen teamwork to enhance service delivery at the facility.
Angela Oduche is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
