The 6Cs of Nursing Care: Challenges in Nigeria

Abstract

The 6Cs of nursing care: Care, Compassion, Competence, Communication, Courage and Commitment are the core professional values that guide nursing practice and patient-centered health care globally. These concepts are necessary to deliver quality health care, improve patient outcomes, and uphold ethical standards in the nursing profession. However, in Nigeria, the realisation of these principles is hindered by a number of institutional, economic and professional problems. This analysis highlights the significance of the 6Cs in the Nigerian healthcare system and elaborates on the significant hurdles facing nursing practice. Key issues include insufficient funding for health care, shortage of health workers, low pay, migration of competent nurses, burn-out, lack of professional development opportunities and deficient health infrastructure. These issues adversely impact nurses’ ability to provide patient-centered, competent, and compassionate care. Nigerian nurses continue to display resilience, professionalism and commitment to the well-being of their patients despite these challenges. Enhancing healthcare policies, workforce development, better remuneration and investment in healthcare infrastructure to address these difficulties is crucial to strengthen nurse practice and improve healthcare outcomes. The successful integration of the 6Cs continues to be key to sustainable improvements in the delivery of healthcare in Nigeria.