The nursing profession in Sri Lanka: time for policy changes

Area of Science:

• Nursing Policy
• Health Workforce Development
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Global interconnectivity necessitates advancements in nursing leadership, research, education, and policy.
• These reforms are crucial for enhancing health workforce performance and professionalization.
• Improving nursing is essential for strengthening overall health systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify critical issues and challenges within the nursing profession in Sri Lanka.
• To determine specific areas and methods for necessary policy changes.
• To propose actionable strategies for nursing reform.

Main Methods:

• Utilized first-hand knowledge of Sri Lankan healthcare and nursing.
• Conducted a survey of nurses at a major urban government hospital.
• Analyzed published and unpublished literature on the nursing profession.

Main Results:

• Identified a significant policy vacuum in nursing.
• Highlighted the need for mandatory nurse licensure in both public and private sectors.
• Emphasized the necessity for realistic policies to advance nursing education.

Conclusions:

• Policy and action are required to establish mandatory nurse licensure and develop nursing education.
• A professionalization process is needed to support nursing autonomy and voice.
• Systematic processes for accreditation, curriculum revision, continuing professional development, evidence-based practice, research, leadership, and information systems are crucial.