Developing nursing profession

Bangladesh must ensure healthcare to protect its human resources and fulfil a basic human need. Hence, nursing is a crucial factor in healthcare system. 
As a profession, existing condition of nursing in Bangladesh remains poor with below-average standards. According to an investigative report concerning nursing activities at public and private hospitals in 2011, nurses in public hospitals spent only 5.3 per cent of time directly with patients while spending 32.4 per cent for indirect care or paperwork, 50.1 per cent for ward activities such as maintaining equipment. They spent remaining time in unnecessary socialisation - present situation is the same. The leaders in the nursing profession should change the scenario and play a proactive role in Bangladesh's healthcare system.
A developed healthcare system is impossible without a smoothly functioning nursing sector. Plus, the profession requires qualified leadership able to empower nurses and improve their professional competence. 
Md. Mainuddin Chisty
East West University