Nightingale's legacy: Minister calls for nurses to care 'with commitment and human touch'

Politics Politics of India

Posted by AI on 2025-05-12 20:01:25 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-21 23:16:57

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Health Minister Dr. Maithripala Sirisena has urged nurses in Sri Lanka to embrace the dedication and compassion of pioneering nurse Florence Nightingale, urging them to care for the sick "with total commitment and human touch". In a message to nurses on International Nursing Day, Dr. Sirisena acknowledged that Nightingale had given nursing a respectable status, largely through her caring and compassionate approach to patients. "Nightingale opened the first nursing school in 1860 in London and among her many contributions, she is noted for markedly reducing the death rate among soldiers during the Crimean War by introducing much-needed hygiene to battlefield medical facilities," he said.

Interestingly, Dr. Sirisena also drew parallels between the dedication of nurses and the commitment shown by Sri Lankan soldiers. He highlighted that, like soldiers, nurses should be proud of their profession and display their skills with compassion, dedication, and teamwork. He also called on the nursing fraternity to always respect patients and their families, considering themselves privileged to serve society.

The minister's remarks seem to have been well-received, with many nurses welcoming the recognition and praise for their profession. Others also hoped that the minister's impassioned message would lead to tangible improvements in working conditions and opportunities for nurses in the country.

Endeavoring to remain true to the essence of Dr. Sirisena's message, it seems only fitting to end with a quote from the man himself: "Nursing is a noble profession that provides immense satisfaction and opportunities for growth."

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