A disturbing video has surfaced online, sparking outrage and demanding accountability. The clip shows a nurse in a hospital setting filming a pregnant woman experiencing contractions while in labor.
The unidentified nurse, clearly dressed in her uniform, stands beside the woman who is visibly in distress. Despite the evident pain, the nurse continues recording the video, even smiling throughout the ordeal.
Why it Matters?
This act has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with many highlighting the blatant violation of patient privacy and the nurse’s gross unprofessionalism. The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria’s Code of Professional Conduct explicitly states that “information and records of the client must be kept confidential,” a principle the nurse demonstrably disregarded.
- Many have expressed disgust at the nurse’s conduct, calling for immediate disciplinary action, including license revocation. Some speculate that the individual might not even be a registered nurse, potentially an auxiliary nurse, whose training and qualifications fall short of the required standards.
- Nursing is a highly respected profession worldwide, demanding years of dedicated study and adherence to a strict ethical code. To become a registered nurse in Nigeria, one must complete a minimum three-year program at an accredited institution and obtain certification from the governing council.
- Auxiliary nurses, on the other hand, assist qualified nurses in patient care tasks such as cleaning, monitoring vital signs, and changing bed linens. However, their practice is often deemed illegal due to the lack of formal training and proper regulation, particularly in private healthcare facilities.
What They Are Saying?
Nigerians are demanding swift action in this case. Calls for identifying the nurse, the involved hospital, and revoking her license have dominated online discourse.
Here’s a glimpse of the public’s outrage:
“Not to Trivialize what Women go through but hear me…
How come Women don’t treat fellow Women with care during their periods/cramps ?
How come those matrons don’t show all forms of care to pregnant Women ?
Women “hardly” stand for pregnant Women to sit at the bank and other places
Imagine if Men were to learn how to treat Women from how Women treat their fellow Women ??
Sigh!!,” remarked @ThaboyYom.
- Another user, @Chief Som, expressed concern about the potential for even worse treatment when the cameras are off: “This is what she has on camera. Now, imagine how badly she treats her patients when no one is looking.”
- The lack of empathy and professionalism displayed by the nurse is deeply concerning. As @Rita rightly stated, “This is so unethical! The level of unprofessionalism in some hospitals and clinics is so alarming.
- How can you leave a pregnant woman with so much pain to start videoing her while she’s going through the pain?
- Where is your professionalism and humanity?
The reason we lose so many people is because of the nonchalant attitude from those who are supposed to care for us.
If this happens in my office, you and your license are gone.”
Bottom Line
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for stricter regulations within the Nigerian healthcare system, particularly regarding the conduct and qualifications of medical personnel. Nursing is a noble profession entrusted with the care and well-being of vulnerable individuals. Such blatant disregard for patient privacy and basic human decency cannot be tolerated.