Feb 25 • 11:42 UTC 🇫🇮 Finland Iltalehti

Now the Filipino nurses speak - "It is not sufficient"

Filipino nurses in Finland express their struggles regarding insufficient support for language development and training opportunities.

The North European Association of Filipino Nurses has brought to light several issues faced by Filipino nurses in Finland, particularly emphasizing a lack of sufficient support from supervisors and management for developing language skills. The association noted that the fast-paced work environment, staff shortages, and inadequate opportunities for training have compounded the difficulties for these nurses in learning the Finnish language effectively within their jobs. This situation has led to challenges in communication that could compromise patient safety and overall employee wellness.

Many Filipino nurses have reported that they were not provided with necessary training time, guidance, or mentoring, despite these elements being crucial for maintaining not only patient safety but also the mental well-being of the nurses themselves. The association argues that such deficiencies can lead to feelings of frustration and isolation among the Filipino nursing staff, affecting their ability to perform their roles confidently and effectively. Additionally, the lack of appropriate guidance in professional training settings has resulted in experiences that many nurses described as unequal and unfair.

The association has also highlighted that recruitment agencies play a significant role in this cycle of poor support. They urge for more accountability from these agencies regarding the integration and support processes they have in place for foreign staff. As discussions about the treatment and working conditions of Filipino nurses gain momentum, it raises broader questions about the ethical responsibilities of healthcare systems in accommodating non-native staff and ensuring equitable treatment within professional educational environments.

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