Nurses Warned Against Signing Medical Forms for Patients in Ghana

BOLGATANGA: Mr Emmanuel Tibil Panzin, the Upper East Regional Chairman of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), has issued a stern warning to nurses and midwives against signing medical forms for patients, stating that such actions are outside their professional duties. According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Panzin delivered this caution during a training workshop for the newly inaugurated Regional, Municipal, and District executives of the GRNMA. The workshop aimed to enhance the leadership skills of these executives and equip them with knowledge on unionism, conflict management, and medico-legal issues. It also emphasized the strict adherence to the ethical standards expected in the nursing and midwifery professions. Mr Panzin highlighted that the unauthorized signing of medical forms could be motivated by monetary gains, which is considered unethical in their profession. He clarified that patient information is privileged and confidential, and must never be disclosed inappropriately. T he training also included discussions on the importance of understanding the roles and responsibilities of leadership within the union. This initiative is part of a broader five-year strategic plan initiated by Mrs Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo, the President of the Association, which focuses on education, training, and research to bolster the capabilities of GRNMA members. Moreover, Mr Moses Salifu Duut, the Second Vice Chairman of the Association, addressed issues of conflict management during the workshop. He noted that many conflicts within healthcare facilities stem from poor communication and a lack of proper orientation for new employees. Mr Duut emphasized the necessity of having difficult conversations to resolve conflicts and improve the working environment. The training session also covered topics such as anger management and the importance of maintaining calm in conflict situations to avoid exacerbating issues with aggressive behavior. Mr Francis Wuni, the Association's Regional Secretary, led a segme nt on unionism and the history of the GRNMA. He encouraged the executives to uphold the dignity of their roles and the professions they represent. Participants, including Mrs Sylvia Antwi Boasiako Frimpong, expressed gratitude for the insights gained at the workshop, which they believed would empower them to manage the Association's affairs more effectively at the District and Municipal levels.