The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has called for immediate national action. This follows a physical assault on a senior staff midwife. The incident occurred at the Community 22 Polyclinic in Tema. The attackers were relatives of a patient. GRNMA is demanding urgent measures to protect nurses and midwives from workplace violence. The association's president, Mrs Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo, and general secretary, Dr David Tenkorang Twum, issued a statement. They expressed grave concern over the attack. They described it as uncivilized and criminal. They emphasized that no healthcare worker should face threats or violence. Healthcare facilities must be safe places for healing.
This incident highlights a growing problem in Ghana's healthcare sector. Violence against healthcare professionals is becoming more common. GRNMA wants all health institutions to prioritize staff safety. This includes the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service. Recommendations include more security personnel. They also suggest better visitor control systems. Rapid response plans for violent incidents are needed. They also push for more surveillance systems. Regular security risk assessments are crucial. This focus on security echoes broader concerns about public safety. It also reflects the difficult working conditions many nurses face.
The GRNMA's call for a national policy is significant. It aims to address a systemic issue. This is not an isolated event. Similar incidents have occurred across the country. The association is urging the government to ratify ILO Convention 190. This is the International Labour Organisation's convention on violence and harassment in the workplace. Ratifying this convention would provide a strong framework. It would help prevent and address such violence. Ghana's commitment to worker protection would be strengthened. Parliament and labour organizations are also part of this appeal. The process needs to be expedited for better protection of healthcare workers.
The association also appealed to the police. They want the Community 22 Police Station to investigate swiftly. They must identify, arrest, and prosecute all those responsible. Swift justice is important for the victim. It also serves as a deterrent to others. GRNMA urged the public to stop all acts of violence. Nurses and midwives are not enemies. They work under difficult conditions. They make sacrifices to save lives. Violence is never the answer. The association encourages using official complaint channels. This is for any concerns about healthcare services.
GRNMA acknowledged the reaction from its members. Members are angry and concerned. They urged nurses and midwives to remain calm. Professionalism and law-abiding behavior are expected. The association stands united. They will defend the rights and dignity of all nurses and midwives. This stance underscores the crucial role of nurses. They are central to Ghana's healthcare delivery system. Protecting them is vital for continued service.