In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at advancing nursing careers, the UAE has introduced specialized nursing residency programs, a first for the country.
Endorsed by the National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), these programs include residencies for fresh graduates, critical care for adults, and mental health nursing.
The move is expected to particularly benefit Emirati nurses, empowering them to specialize and enhance their professional capabilities. This initiative is aligned with UAE leadership directives to strengthen healthcare services, contributing to national healthcare goals and fostering a healthier society.
Dr. Mohammed Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary of MoHAP, emphasized the significance of skilled Emirati nurses in improving community health and providing exceptional healthcare services. He highlighted the strategic importance of investing in nursing specialization to ensure high-quality care for both citizens and residents.
Dr. Sumaya Mohamed Al Balushi, Head of the National Committee for Nursing and Midwifery at MoHAP, urged Emirati nurses to seize the opportunity to participate in these residencies. She underscored the importance of nursing specializations in optimizing healthcare resources and achieving comprehensive health coverage.
MoHAP has outlined licensing requirements for nursing specializations, emphasizing clinical training and educational qualifications. This initiative marks a pivotal step towards establishing a robust nursing specialization system in the UAE.
The programs signify a significant leap forward in the National Strategy for Nursing and Midwifery (Roadmap 2022–2026), aimed at enhancing nursing governance and advancing healthcare practices tailored to the country's needs.
Nurses in the UAE can specialise in the following field:
- Adult Health Care Nurse
- Anesthesia Nurse
- Cardiovascular Care Nurse
- Nursing Informatics Nurse
- Community Health Care Nurse
- Intensive Care Nurse
- Diabetes Care Nurse
- Emergency Nurse
- Infection Control Nurse
- Maternal Health Nurse
- Neonatal Nurse
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse
- Oncology Nurse
- Palliative Care Nurse
- Pediatric Nurse
- Pediatric Intensive Care Nurse
- Wound Care Nurse
News Source: Khaleej Times