We, at the United Hospital, plan to deliver top quality medical services to our people.

Unfortunately, in the process of recruiting, we did not find the nurses who can really deliver world-class services. To bring them to that level we have started conducting an 'intensive training programme' for the selected nurses. One of the four core items/sectors of the training programme is 'Attitude build up and Behaviour' (Other sectors are English language, Computer/IT and Professional skills)

We are trying to 'change' the prevailing attitudes towards the nurses.

They are one of the respected members of the 'medical team', which delivers the service. Doctors should not consider them as 'subordinates' to carry out the 'orders'. We should show proper respect to the nurses and at the same time nurses should also develop 'self esteem'. The society should not look 'down upon' them. Theoretically, we all say: it's a noble profession but that is not reflected in reality. We are trying to impart the confidence in their minds brushing aside the 'undesired inferiority complex'. They will be trained how to behave properly/show respect to the patients, their attendants and other people.

In this context, I feel, the initiatives taken through that 'round table discussion' is highly commendable.

Our print and electronic media has a duty to the society to dispel the misconception about the nursing profession. Their role to attract the top meritorious students from the upper middle class society into this profession is vital. Only then the Graduate Nursing Programmes will get the students from the top level ensuring the output of a type of nurses who would really deliver 'world class' services in Bangladesh.

I would also like to request the authorities and policy makers of the private universities to include this vital topic (Attitude build up and Behaviour) in their Graduate Nursing Programme Curriculum.