220 nurses urged to prioritise patient safety, professionalism and lifelong learning during supervised practice programme.
By: Steven Kamoa
Two hundred and twenty nurses taking part in the Nurses Supervised Practice Program have been urged to put patient safety, professionalism and continuous learning at the centre of their clinical practice.
The call was made by Layton Jacob, Deputy Secretary of Corporate Services at the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, during the official opening of the programme’s Induction Component at Holy Cross Cathedral.
Jacob said the supervised practice programme provides nurses with a structured environment to strengthen their clinical knowledge and skills, apply professional standards and build confidence in their roles.
He reminded the nurses that being a safe and competent practitioner does not mean knowing everything, but recognising their limitations and seeking help when needed.
“Do not be afraid to ask questions. Do not be afraid to seek guidance. Do not be afraid to acknowledge what you do not yet know.”
Jacob said patient safety should remain central to nurses’ clinical decisions and interactions.
He urged participants to work within their scope of practice, follow relevant policies and clinical guidelines, maintain patient confidentiality, communicate clearly and keep proper clinical records.
“At the heart of this program is one fundamental principle: that is the patient must remain at the centre of everything we do.”
Jacob also highlighted the importance of teamwork in healthcare, noting that nurses work alongside doctors, midwives, pharmacists, laboratory staff, community health workers and other health professionals.
He encouraged the nurses to learn from their colleagues, consider different perspectives and communicate clearly throughout the programme.
Jacob said healthcare continues to change as new evidence, technologies, treatments and models of care emerge.
“We must develop a culture of lifelong learning.”
He said the supervised practice programme would help participants strengthen their clinical skills, build confidence and further develop their commitment to the nursing profession.
Jacob officially opened the Induction Component of the Nurses Supervised Practice Program and wished the participating nurses success in their professional development.
