The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the hospital’s management over inadequate staffing and deficiencies in the working environment.

The association said the lack of basic equipment such as thermometers, weighing scales, oxygen cylinders and glucometers, as well as medicine for patients, had made quality healthcare delivery and the efficiency of medical personnel practically impossible in the institution.

It argued that the challenges had placed avoidable pressure on healthcare personnel, thereby compromising the timely, safe and effective delivery of patient care.

The association said, “Of particular concern is the reported situation in which three hospital wards share and queue for a single blood pressure apparatus to carry out routine clinical duties.

“This shortage is incompatible with the practical requirements of a specialised hospital providing round-the-clock care. Adequate medical equipment, sufficient staffing, reliable electricity and clean water are essential to patient safety, infection prevention and control, staff welfare and effective service delivery.

“We call for urgent and meaningful action within the next 21 days.” (Saturday Tribune)