By Henry Kimoli
Nairobi, Kenya, July 25 2020: The National Nurses Association of Kenya (NNAK) has called upon County Governments to move with speed to cushion healthcare workers against the effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic amid rising cases among healthcare professionals.
The association’s President, Mr. Alfred Obengo said the medics across the country require urgent training on infectious disease management, quality protective gear, and psychosocial support.
Touching on the issue of rising positive COVID-19 cases among health workers, Mr. Obengo singled out an incident where a 33 weeks expectant nurse was transferred from Rachuonyo Sub County Hospital to Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital for Intensive Care Unit (ICU) management after testing positive to the virus.
He went on to take issue with the approach adopted by the County Governments on preparedness in handling the COVID-19 situation.
“We need all County Governments to put into action what they are telling us. Actions speak louder than words. Too much sweet words yet no meaningful preparedness and commitment means nothing,” said Mr. Obengo.
He emphasised that as Country Governments strive to attain the 300 mark bed capacity in preparedness for COVID-19, employment of more healthcare workers as well as psychosocial support should be the top priority in their plans.
His remarks come at the backdrop of the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife campaign which seeks to recognize, honour and celebrate nurses and midwives.
The association’s president also added that over 20,000 of its members across the country ought to be equipped adequately, safeguarded and their welfare prioritised in preparedness plans together with that of other healthcare professionals.
In the recent past, Kenya has continued to report more cases of COVID-19 amongst its healthcare workers as well as publics, a worrying trend that NNAK president says might overwhelm healthcare centres as well as the workers in the coming days.
About NNAK
NNAK is a professional association representing all cadres of nurses in Kenya drawn from practice settings, education and research institutions. The association which promotes excellence in nursing and midwifery in Kenya was established in 1968 has branches in all 47 counties.
The aim of the association is to build and maintain nursing professional standards, authority, leadership, and trust of the society in order to generate the energy and flow of ideas needed to maintain a healthy profession.
