Nursing by-law will develop profession, enhance public health — council

AMMAN — The new by-law for nurses and midwives aims to develop the profession to enhance public health, the Jordanian Nursing Council said on Thursday, after medical staff threatened to strike over the new regulations. 

“This by-law aims to develop nursing and midwifery services in Jordan in order to protect [the] public and enhance their health through regulating the profession,” the council said in a statement.

The council said the by-law, which came into effect on June 30, was consistent with the Public Health Law and would establish a specialisation committee and a “career ladder committee”.

Nurses and midwives can choose whether or not they wish to advance their careers, the council said, adding that the by-law would offer those who chose to specialise opportunities for professional development and preparation to work in line with global standards. 

The Jordan Nurses and Midwives Association (JNMA) had threatened to strike over the new law, which it said would hinder the career progression of nurses and midwives.

JNMA President Mohammad Hatamleh told The Jordan Times on Monday that the new regulations could make medical staff vulnerable to exploitation by private training companies, adding that the association should be the sole authority of the professions of nursing and midwifery.  

But the JNC said the implementation of the by-law did not “require high costs or put financial burdens on nurses”. 

“The JNC is currently taking all necessary steps for the implementation of the by-law; a new scope of practice, standards and competencies for the general and specialised nurses were developed and will be disseminated to all in all health sectors,” the council added.

The JNC urged all nurses and midwives to read the new by-law, and expressed its willingness to answer any questions to enhance the implementation of the new regulations. 

“The guiding principles of open communication and partnership with all institutions are our roadmaps to achieving success and effective implementation,” the council said.