PUNE: Successive governments have always ignored problems of nurses so far, said Maharashtra Government Nurses Federation President Anuradha Athawale. The Federation will hold their 17th State-wide conference to highlight the issues faced by nurses.

Athawale, along with other office-bearers of the Federation, highlighted a few issues. “There are around 2,500 nurses across the State working with the government establishments for the past 9-10 years. So far, their services have not been confirmed. They are denied their legitimate right to a weekly off and leaves,” said Athawale.

She said despite assurances from the government, no concrete steps have been taken yet. “Issues as small as changing the dress code from white to brown have not been implemented properly across the State, in spite of the directive,” said Athawale.

She said nurses are given more administrative work. “As a nurse, we already have the responsibility to take care of patients. In addition to that, in the wake of staff crunch, we also end up doing administrative work. When doctors went on strike for their safety, guards were provided across the State in every hospital. However, no one talks about our security,” said Athawale.

She said nurses are transferred from one place to another for no reason. “This transfer system also gives way to corruption,” said Athawale.