To uphold legal and ethical healthcare standards, the Botswana Nurses Union (BONU) has communicated to government the discontinuation of nurses and midwives dispensing medicines to patients at health facilities, effective from July 1.
BONU, in a formal notice addressed to the Directorate of Public Service Management (DPSM) and he same copied to the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Health, highlighted that the current practice of nurses and midwives dispensing medicines is both unlawful and in violation of the code of ethics for practising nurses and midwives. The decision to cease this practice was made to ensure compliance with the Medicines and Related Substances Act of 2013 and the Nurses and Midwives Act of 1995.
BONU states in their letter that Section 26 (1) (a-c) of the Medicines and Related Substances Act clearly states that operating a dispensary without proper authority is an offence that may result in imprisonment and/or a fine. BONU emphasised that the responsibility for dispensing medicines lies with authorised professionals, prohibiting nurses and midwives to undertake this role.
Additionally, Section 11 (1) (c) of the Nurses and Midwives Act restricts registered professionals from engaging in any practices that are not provided for or differ from the terms and conditions of their practising certificate. BONU stressed that the act of dispensing medicines falls outside the scope of its members' professional responsibilities.
Moreover, BONU highlighted that the practice of nurses and midwives dispensing medicines is contrary to the professional ethics of nurses. The code of practice mandates accountability, fidelity, and veracity, and professionals must not engage in any conduct that is illegal according to the law.
BONU expressed its confidence that the Ministry of Health shares its view on the illegality of the practice and recognises the potential harm it poses to the reputation and ethical standing of the nursing profession.
BONU maintains that the decision for nurses and midwives to discontinue dispensing medicines aligns with its commitment to upholding the law and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism within the healthcare sector.
