Saudi nursing: The heart of the healthcare system and a partner in the National Transformation Program 2030
Saudi nursing: From traditional care to leading healthcare transformation
Health sector leaders and experts have affirmed that Saudi nursing staff has become a cornerstone of the Kingdom's healthcare system, transcending the traditional concept of direct care to encompass leadership, specialized, and research roles that contribute to healthcare decision-making and improve service quality. This rapid development coincides with the significant transformation underway in the healthcare sector, aligned with the goals of Vision 2030, which aims to build an effective and sustainable healthcare system.
Historical context and development of the profession in the Kingdom
Historically, the nursing profession in Saudi Arabia has undergone radical transformations. After relying heavily on expatriate staff, the government prioritized the localization of this vital sector by establishing specialized health colleges and institutes and developing scholarship programs. These efforts have resulted in the graduation of generations of highly competent Saudi nurses, who have formed the core of the "Saudization" of the nursing profession, thus strengthening national health security and contributing to the provision of care that deeply understands the cultural and social background of patients.
The importance of nursing in achieving the goals of Vision 2030
Nursing plays a pivotal role in achieving the goals of the healthcare transformation program stemming from Vision 2030. Nursing staff are no longer merely implementers of treatment plans, but have become key partners in planning and execution. This includes their participation in areas such as quality and patient safety, risk management, digital transformation, health education, and scientific research. This empowerment enhances the efficiency of the healthcare system and raises the level of care provided, positively impacting national health indicators and positioning the Kingdom among the world's leading healthcare nations.
Leadership roles and increasing challenges
Dr. Badriya Al-Shehri, Associate Executive Director of Nursing at the First Riyadh Health Cluster, explained that the nursing profession has become a key partner in healthcare decision-making and leading development projects. She pointed out that the nature of the work, with its inherent psychological and physical pressures, especially with long shifts and daily interaction with critical cases, pain, and loss, presents significant challenges. She emphasized the importance of providing psychological support programs, improving the work environment, and offering clear financial incentives and career paths to retain national talent and ensure the sustainability of their contributions.
Humanity and science: the essence of the nursing profession
For her part, Dr. Nasreen Al-Ghamdi, Assistant Professor at the College of Nursing at King Abdulaziz University, affirmed that nursing combines scientific and humanitarian dimensions, as the nurse is the voice of the patient and an advocate for their rights and dignity. She recalled her experience in the intensive care unit, where the most impactful moments were those involving meticulous attention to detail that provides the patient with comfort and reassurance, preserving their human dignity even in the most critical health conditions. She added that Saudi nursing continues to develop at an accelerated pace, supported by an ambitious national vision and advanced educational programs.
Work pressures and the need for job stability
Hanan Al-Fahad, a pediatric cardiac intensive care nurse, explained that nursing staff are the cornerstone of the healthcare system, bearing the responsibility of providing comprehensive care that ensures patient safety. She emphasized that work pressures and long shifts pose significant psychological and physical challenges. She stressed that inadequate financial compensation compared to the effort and responsibility involved may drive some qualified individuals to leave the profession, asserting that improving salaries and incentives has become an urgent necessity to retain national talent and enhance the stability of the healthcare sector.
Job burnout threatens healthcare practitioners
Dr. Rana Al-Amri, Assistant Professor of Critical Care Nursing, pointed out that recent studies have shown a clear link between sleep disorders and increased anxiety and burnout among nurses, particularly in critical care settings. She emphasized the importance of providing psychological support programs and strategies to help achieve work-life balance, as well as enhancing the participation of nursing staff in decision-making processes to continuously improve the work environment.
Empowerment enhances the quality of healthcare
Finally, Abdulmohsen Al-Zahrani, Executive Director of Nursing at King Saud Medical City, affirmed that the healthcare transformation within Vision 2030 has significantly contributed to empowering nursing staff and enhancing their efficiency. He pointed out that nurses face daily challenges requiring rapid decisions that may be life-threatening for patients, necessitating continuous professional and psychological support. He emphasized the importance of highlighting national success stories and supporting scholarships and specialized training to attract young men and women to this noble humanitarian profession.
