The Ministry of Health has issued a stern warning to nurses neglecting their duties by spending time on social media, particularly TikTok, during working hours.
Professor Christopher Simoonga, Permanent Secretary in Charge of Administration, expressed shock over the trend, calling it unprofessional and unacceptable.
Speaking at the launch of a customer care initiative at Livingstone Teaching Hospital, Prof. Simoonga emphasized the importance of nurses focusing on patient care rather than social media.
"Young nurses are on TikTok when they should be attending to patients. Phones should not be allowed in the ward," he said. "A nurse must be caring, not distracted by 'tiko tiko.'"
Prof. Simoonga criticized the lack of supervision among health workers, which he believes contributes to the issue.
He highlighted that this behavior compromises the quality of healthcare, with even hospital laboratories reportedly losing specimens.
In a bid to enforce discipline, he warned that he would personally check laboratory turnaround times and address any missing results.
He also cautioned against the illegal practice of diverting government drugs to private pharmacies.
Prof. Simoonga underscored that hospitals are meant to inspire hope in patients, not despair.
He urged Livingstone Teaching Hospital to adhere strictly to its service charter or risk losing patients to lower-ranked facilities.
Southern Province Health Director, Callistus Kaayunga, echoed these sentiments, stressing that health is an investment and that the public expects the best return on this investment.
He called for a shift towards receiving more praise for services rendered rather than complaints.
This crackdown aims to ensure that public health facilities provide clean, competent, and compassionate care to all patients.
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