Nurses Under Pressure: The Rise of Defensive Care in Egypt

In Egypt, nurses are increasingly adopting a defensive approach to their work. This means they are more focused on protecting themselves legally rather than prioritizing patient care. This shift is alarming and warrants a closer look. Why is this happening? Well, workplace violence and legal threats are on the rise. Nurses are feeling the heat and are adapting their practices to shield themselves from potential harm. This is a significant change in how nurses approach their jobs. The study delves into this issue, examining how common defensive nursing practices are and what factors contribute to them. It's a critical look at the challenges nurses face in Egypt today. Workplace violence is a major concern. Nurses are often on the front lines, dealing with aggressive patients or family members. This can lead to a stressful work environment, where nurses feel they need to protect themselves first and foremost. Legal threats add another layer of complexity. Nurses are worried about being sued or facing legal consequences for their actions. This fear can influence how they care for patients, leading to a more cautious and defensive approach. The study highlights the importance of addressing these issues. Nurses need support and protection to ensure they can provide the best care possible. This includes better training, support systems, and legal protections. The impact of defensive nursing practices goes beyond individual nurses. It affects the entire healthcare system. When nurses are more concerned with legal protection, it can lead to a decline in the quality of care. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. The study also looks at the broader context. It's not just about individual nurses or hospitals. It's about the healthcare system as a whole and how it can better support its frontline workers. The findings of the study are a wake-up call. They show that there is a pressing need for change. Nurses need to feel safe and supported in their roles. This means addressing workplace violence and legal threats head-on. The study also raises questions about the future of nursing in Egypt. How can nurses continue to provide high-quality care in such a challenging environment? What steps can be taken to improve their working conditions? The study provides valuable insights into the challenges nurses face in Egypt. It highlights the need for a more supportive and protective environment. This is crucial for ensuring that nurses can continue to provide the best possible care to their patients.