Nursing a key pillars of healthcare system, says V Kezo

KOHIMA — The commissioner and secretary of Health and Family Welfare department, V Kezo, has lauded the noble profession of nurses in their service towards humanity and stated that nursing has evolved as the key pillars of healthcare system in the world.

He stated this during the 50th anniversary celebration of the Trained Nurses Association of India (TNAI) Nagaland branch on Thursday at Capital Cultural Hall in Kohima.

Kezo, who was the chief guest of the event said, “Nursing by default requires a lot of positive qualities as they deal with people who are fragile in their body, mind and souls; who are very tense, worried and who face not only physical but financial stress and tension.”

He also appreciated the initiatives of Nagaland Chief Minister, Niephiu Rio, for the Chief Minister Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS) that covers all pensioners, government servants and the citizens by ensuring the right to health as the basic human right.

Reminding the ever evolving nature of life, he urged the gathering to learn to adapt and keep up with the changing times and not become redundant. He added that despite the evolution in technology, there is nothing that can replace the gentle touch of a truly dedicated nurse. He further called upon the nurses to remain dedicated to the profession in serving humanity.

Prof. A Purnungla Aier, nursing superintendent at Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research (CIHSR), asked the nursing community not to let machines overtake the role they do but use machines as an assistive device to work efficiently and better their profession.

She stressed on the importance of keeping oneself updated in order to fulfill their responsibility as a nurse. She also called upon the nursing community to retrospect and continue the objectives of nursing that was established years ago with compassion, versatility, a combination of science and arts that distinguishes the profession from many other professions.

Cheryl Susan Tada, TNAI national vice president of northeast region, stressed the need for exchange of knowledge to uplift one another in the nursing community. She advised the nurses to give care to everyone with dignity and honour without being biased but with justice in the practice.

In his greetings, Dr. Bernard Amer, president of Nagaland In-service Doctors Association (NIDA), recalled the sacrifices made by nurses that have made a profound impact on the life of the people in the delivery of health services. He also commended the works done by the members of TNAI.

Shetoni Sema, retired deputy director of nursing, stated that nursing job is demanding but at the same time rewarding in making impacts in the lives of thousands of peoples. She also called upon the nursing community to carry forward the spirit of compassion, dedication and service in order to inspire, heal and create a positive impact on the world around them.

The welcome address was delivered by S Tiakala Longkumer, president of TNAI Nagaland branch, wherein she informed that there are 11 TNAI local units in Nagaland.

The programme was led by Prof. Khumjanbeni Murry, joint secretary of TNAI Nagaland branch, while TNAI Mokokchung unit made a prelude, a choreography was present by School Nursing Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) and choral piece was presented by Dimapur unit.

Temsusenla Aier, vice principal of School of Nursing at IMDH Mokochung, led the gathering in obituary prayer, while Tiamenla Jamir, secretary of TNAI Nagaland branch, felicitated distinguished members of TNAI Nagaland branch.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Vesalu Rose, convenor of golden jubilee planning-cum-fund raise committee.

Later in the evening, a cultural extravaganza-cum-closing function was held with Athel O Lotha, commissioner and secretary of Art and Culture, as the chief guest.