Nurses warned against ridiculing patients’ illnesses

…as they mark International Nurses Day

Bokang Mofoka

NURSES have been warned against ridiculing or mocking patients suffering from illness, with healthcare workers urged to uphold compassion, dignity and professionalism at all times.

The warning was delivered by Lesotho Nurses and Midwives Organisation (LeNMO) president, Busa Qhala, during the association’s commemoration of International Nurses Day held in Maseru this week.

“Nurses must stop laughing at people’s illnesses. Patients deserve dignity, compassion and respect at all times,” Mr Qhala said firmly.

Held under the theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future: Empowered Nurses Save Lives”, the event brought together practicing nurses, retired professionals, student nurses and families of deceased members to celebrate the profession while reflecting on challenges facing healthcare workers in Lesotho.

Mr Qhala urged nurses to use the occasion as a moment of self-reflection and professional accountability.

“As we celebrate this important day, nurses must examine themselves and ask whether they are truly fulfilling the expectations of the profession.

“Nurses must always remember that one day they too will become patients. The way we treat people today matters for the future,” he said.

Mr Qhala said this year’s celebration was particularly significant as it came at a time when a former nurse, Sister ‘Mamokete Ntšekhe, has become a new Minister of Health.

“We are fortunate to have a Health Minister who comes from the nursing profession and understands our struggles. I encourage all nurses to support and work well with her so that our concerns and needs can be addressed in time.”

He further revealed that Parliament had begun paying closer attention to the welfare of nurses. According to Mr Qhala, he was recently invited to appear before Parliament where issues affecting nurses were extensively discussed.

“Among the issues raised was the mountain allowance package for nurses working in difficult and remote areas. Parliament promised to review the matter, and discussions were also held regarding retention packages for nurses.”

During the ceremony, the association also paid tribute to deceased members by inviting bereaved families connected to former members of the organisation, including the family of the late former LeNMO secretary, Morephe Santi.

Mr Qhala said the gesture was aimed at ensuring families of former members continue to feel supported even after the passing of their loved ones.

“We want these families to know that we still remember them and value the contribution made by their relatives. These individuals served the association and the nursing profession with dedication during their lifetime.”

The issue of international employment opportunities for nurses also featured prominently during the event. Mr Qhala confirmed that programmes facilitating the placement of Basotho nurses abroad were continuing, with negotiations underway with countries such as Kuwait and Qatar.

“Discussions with countries like Kuwait and Qatar are progressing well. Formal agreements between governments will follow, but we are already working to create opportunities for Basotho nurses to work abroad.”

He added that the association was also pushing for English language competency examinations required for overseas employment to be administered locally instead of in neighbouring South Africa.

“At the moment, many nurses are forced to travel to South Africa for English competency tests, which becomes very expensive. We want those examinations to be offered locally to reduce costs and make the process more accessible,” Mr Qhala said.

Meanwhile, Student Chapter chairperson, Loti Andreas Matsoso, described International Nurses Day as an opportunity for student nurses to learn from experienced and retired professionals.

“This day allows us as students to learn valuable lessons from senior nurses and those who have already retired from active service,” said Mr Matsoso.

The Retired Nurses Chapter chairperson, Matsela Phafoli, also commended the association for continuing to respect and honour retired professionals.

“The theme reminds us that nurses save lives. Even though we are retired, the work of nursing never truly ends because we continue helping our communities at home.”

Throughout the event, speakers repeatedly emphasized unity, professionalism and compassion as key pillars needed to strengthen healthcare services in Lesotho.

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