Jul, 2023
Anera and UNICEF implement a nursing course to meet the need for more qualified staff
As elsewhere, nurses play a vital role in the healthcare system of Lebanon. They are responsible for providing patient care, monitoring their condition, administering medications and ensuring that patients receive the appropriate treatments. But the country’s dire economic conditions are forcing nurses and other medical staff to find a decent job outside the country.
And that has led to a critical shortage of nursing staff at home. The World Health Organization estimates Lebanon’s nurse-to-population ratio as just 1.9 nurses per 1,000 people. The recommended ratio is 3.5 nurses per 1,000 people. This shortage of nurses is due to a variety of factors, including a lack of funding for nursing education programs, limited opportunities for career advancement and low salaries.
Lebanon’s shortage of nurses has a significant impact on the quality of care. Anera, with the support of UNICEF, is providing a practical assistant nursing course to help fill the gap.
Aseel, a 19-year-old Palestinian student, found out about the course on Facebook.
She says,
“After taking this course, especially the practical training, my love and passion for this profession has returned. And, the staff at Chtoura Hospital here in the Bekaa Valley, taught me the tools I needed to develop." He says the training reminded him of the humanitarian mission of the nursing professions.
“After taking this course... my love and passion for this profession has returned."
Mohammed was already pursuing a nursing degree at a technical college.
“This course has given me the drive and experience I need to change from a nursing assistant to a licensed nurse. After surviving the Syrian war and escaping to Lebanon, I made the decision to carry on with my life. This course gave me the confidence to pursue my dream to make a difference in my world.”
"After surviving the Syrian war and escaping to Lebanon, I made the decision to carry on with my life. This course gave me the confidence to pursue my dream to make a difference in my world.”
After the 19 enrolled students completed the course, Chtoura Hospital and Bekaa Hospital hired them all.
Despite the ongoing challenges in Lebanon, nurses continue to provide essential care to patients. Their dedication and commitment to their work is an inspiration to all. And, thanks to Anera and its partners, more nurses are entering the field.
This program is supported by UNICEF.
