Letters
Nursing euologies ignored ethos of control and punishment
EDITOR,--Several recent articles indicate how nurses view themselves.1 2 3 Discussion with medical colleagues has shown that none of them recognise the nursing described. The articles repeat cliches and myths for which there is no evidence.Firstly, nurses have never been handmaidens to doctors. Many employees in all walks of life carry out instructions given by other employees. That does not make any of the former handmaidens to the latter.
Secondly, power often does not lie with doctors. Many routines and policies in wards, labour suites, theatres, and clinics are instigated and maintained by nursing staff. Nurses have considerable power, which, unfortunately, many readily use in a negative and unassertive way.4 Suggestions about different practices and attitudes are often met with hostility and resistance and sometimes with vindictive behaviour.
Thirdly, doctors are accused of not knowing what nurses do. The converse is more accurate. Many nurses, even experienced ones, do not realise
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- What's happening to nursing?
- Jane Salvage
BMJ 1995 311: 274-275.[Extract] [Full Text]
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