Stress and Challenges Faced by Kerala
Nurses in ICU ,wards, Operation Theaters, etc.
Nursing, particularly in high-stress environments such as Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and Operation Theaters (OTs), comes with significant challenges. Nurses in these settings often face intense pressure, long hours, and the need to make quick, life-saving decisions. This environment can lead to severe stress, affecting both their physical and mental health.
Stressors in ICU and OT
- High-Stakes Environment: The ICU and OT are critical care areas where the margin for error is minimal. Nurses are constantly on alert, dealing with emergencies and complex procedures, which can be mentally exhausting.
- Long and Irregular Shifts: The demand for round-the-clock care means that nurses often work long, irregular hours, including night shifts. This disrupts their sleep patterns and leads to chronic fatigue.
- Physical Strain: The physical demands of nursing, such as lifting patients and standing for long periods, contribute to musculoskeletal problems like back pain and headaches.
- Emotional Toll: Dealing with critically ill patients and their families can be emotionally draining. The frequent exposure to trauma and death can lead to burnout and compassion fatigue.
Interpersonal Issues
- Ego Clashes and Senior Torturing: Nurses often face interpersonal conflicts, including ego clashes with colleagues and seniors. Some senior nurses may exhibit a bullying behavior, making the work environment hostile.
- Team Politics: Internal politics can create a toxic work environment, affecting collaboration and morale. Nurses may feel unsupported and isolated, exacerbating their stress levels.
Health Impacts
The cumulative stress from these factors can lead to serious health issues:
- Raised Blood Pressure and Stroke: Chronic stress is a known risk factor for hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, including strokes.
- Mental Health Issues: Continuous stress can result in anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders.
Societal and Financial Constraints
- Low Salary and Poverty: Despite their critical role, many nurses, especially in Kerala, receive low salaries, limiting their financial stability and quality of life.
- Lack of Vacation: Unlike doctors, nurses often cannot afford to go on vacations or take trips with their families due to financial constraints and restrictive leave policies.
- Leave Denial: OT nurses particularly face difficulties in getting leave approvals, as their managers prioritize operational needs over personal well-being, leading to frustration and burnout.
Evolution and Current Scenario
Ten years ago, nurses in Kerala were often marginalized and undervalued in society. However, the scenario has changed significantly under the leadership of Mr. Jasmin Shah, who played a pivotal role in uniting nurses under the United Nurses Association (UNA). This collective effort has improved the professional recognition and working conditions for many nurses. Yet, a significant number still work in low-income settings without adequate benefits.
Financial Barriers to Career Advancement
Many nurses aspire to work abroad for better opportunities. However, the path to international practice is fraught with financial and academic hurdles. Exams like OET and IELTS are costly, with fees around 35,000 INR per attempt, and coaching classes can cost an additional 50,000 INR. These expenses are prohibitive for many nurses, forcing them to stay in less rewarding positions or take substantial loans, which is risky.
Recommendations for Aspiring Nurses
Given these challenges, it is crucial for individuals considering a nursing career in Kerala to be fully aware of the potential difficulties. While nursing remains one of the noblest professions, offering immense personal satisfaction and a vital role in healthcare, the systemic issues and financial constraints should be carefully weighed.
Final Thoughts
Nursing is an essential and respected profession worldwide, and it is crucial that Kerala nurses are adequately supported. Improved policies, better salaries, and recognition of their rights are necessary to ensure their well-being. Upcoming governments need to address these issues to protect and support the nursing community.
Having experienced these challenges firsthand over 15 years in both Kerala and North India, I understand the hardships nurses endure. Despite these obstacles, the nursing profession remains deeply rewarding and integral to healthcare. I hope for a better future where nurses in Kerala receive the respect, support, and remuneration they deserve.
Love You Nurses.
Thanks & Regards,
RN Jorj
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