New Nurses and Mid-Wives Bill takes zero tolerance for misconduct and bad service

New Nurses and Mid-Wives Bill takes zero tolerance for misconduct and bad service
Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Michael Darville.

NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville yesterday warned that under there will be zero tolerance misconduct and bad service under the Nurses and Mid-Wives Bill 2022 which replaces a more than five-decade-old legislation governing the practice. 

During his contribution to the debate on the legislation, Darville said portions of the Bill highlight the professional responsibility and conduct of the nurse intern, the licensed practical nurse, the registered nurse, the midwife, and the advanced practice nurse.

“Misconduct in the profession will not be tolerated under this new legislation,” he said.

“You can’t give bad service to our public. This going to be addressed because nurses must be admonished to operate at their highest code of conduct. It is important that we continue to hold the professions and ensure that professionalism is expected at all times. We are trained to perform at the highest level of professionalism with the greatest stress.”

Darville noted the new legislation which replaces the 1971 Act governs the management of the delivery of healthcare in the country. He described the legislation as progressive while noting that it marks a new day for nurses and for those advancing for change in how nursing has been practiced throughout the country.

According to Darville, the legislation will provide for the enhancement of the way nursing is practiced and the advancement of almost 1,700 nurses and 200 midwives working in clinics and hospitals throughout The Bahamas. 

“The primary focus of this Bill is to bring a higher level of focus to the way that nursing is practiced in our country. It speaks specifically to the various categories of nursing and the need for continuous training, regulation, and preservation of standards of professionalism,” he said.