The Trained Nurses’ Association of India (TNAI), Nagaland State Branch, organized its 12th State Level Conference on September 11 at Mount Tabor Retreat House, Diocese of Kohima, under the theme “Patient-Centered Care: Enhancing Quality and Safety through Nursing Practice.”

Gracing the occasion as the Special Guest, S Tainiu, Secretary, Department of Health & Family Welfare (DH&FW), Government of Nagaland, highlighted the indispensable role nurses play in the health care and service delivery system. She described nurses as skilled professionals, educators, and advocates who provide consistent and compassionate care crucial to a patient’s well-being.

Tainiu emphasized that nurses remain constant companions throughout a patient’s health care journey — monitoring vital signs, administering medication, managing wounds, and responding to changes in patients’ conditions. This continuous care, she said, is vital to patient safety and recovery.

“Nurses also act as patient advocates,” she noted. “Nurses understand patients’ needs, especially for those who cannot speak for themselves. Nurses are not just care givers, they advocate and ensure that patients’ rights are respected, concerns are heard, and individuals are empowered to make informed decisions. They safeguard dignity, autonomy, and privacy — essential elements in contemporary health care delivery.”

On educating patients, Tianiu mentioned that nurses teach patients and their families about health management, treatment plans, medications and life style choices. This, she said, is crucial for post care instructions, helping patients manage their health after leaving the hospital. She also added that nurses also promote preventive care and educate the community on health issues.

Speaking on compassionate nursing care, she said that compassion directly improves patient outcomes — resulting in higher satisfaction, better adherence to treatment, and lower mortality rates. She said this approach promotes healing by addressing physical, emotional, and psychological needs of the patients.

She further said nursing is constantly evolving with new research, new technologies, new diseases and practices. To provide the best possible care, she said nurses must commit to lifelong learning, staying updated on latest developments in health care.

“One must have the commitment for new learning and self improvement. Seek out for opportunities for growth whether through formal education, certifications or staying updated with the latest evidence to maintain high standards of care,” she said.

Referring to today’s working environment, Tainiu said, “We need to have interdisciplinary collaboration which is necessary for providing holistic care”. She insisted on more collaborative partnership between nurses and doctors, spirit of teamwork and mutual respect remains crucial.

“The nursing profession is physically and emotionally demanding which can lead to stress and burnout. However, despite such challenges, it is our responsibility to maintain professionalism, patient centered care and ethical practice. Nurses are important part of health care, shaping both individual health and societal well being,” she further stated.

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Delivering the presidential address, S Tiakala Longkumer, President of TNAI, Nagaland State Branch, acknowledged the tireless efforts behind organizing the state-level conference. She lauded the dedication of nurses, many of whom work round-the-clock in hospitals, and extended gratitude to members across districts for their cooperation and support, especially in fundraising initiatives.

Reflecting on TNAI’s journey, Longkumer noted that since its registration in 1973, the association has steadily grown despite challenges and transitions. She proudly recalled the celebration of its Golden Jubilee in April 2024, which marked a significant milestone.

Longkumer added that TNAI Nagaland no less than other TNAI in mainland.

“Today, TNAI life members has increased to more than 2,000. It shows that our nurses are really coming forward. As we step into this 51st year and look toward the 75th year, I encourage all nurses to look forward and to face the challenges that lies ahead,” she said.

Highlighting the conference theme, “Patient Cantered Care : Enhancing Quality and Safety through Nursing Practice”,  Longkumer observed that patient-centered care resonates with TNAI’s commitment to deliver quality health services. She acknowledged the challenges faced by the nursing profession, including the rising number of hospitalized patients, healthcare costs, shortage of personnel and educators, and the need to remain abreast with medical and technological advances. To address these, she stressed that nursing education must keep pace with practice innovations to ensure continuous delivery of high quality safety and effective patient care.

The inaugural session opened with an invocation by Vikepu Thepa, Chaplain of NHAK, followed by the presidential address from S Tiakala Longkumer, President of TNAI Nagaland State Branch and a theme address delivered by Prof L Emi Humtsoe, College of Nursing, CIHSR.

The business session, chaired by Tiakala Longkumer, focused on reports and agenda discussions, while the valedictory session featured exhortations by Bendangnaro, Dy. Director of Nursing, DH&FW, and a speech by Dr. N. Leamnyei Konyak, Chief Medical Officer, Kohima.

The program concluded with a Change of Guard ceremony, distribution of prizes, and a prayer for the new team. Neisavolu, Convenor of the Planning-cum-Fund Raising Committee, delivered the vote of thanks.

The event brought together nurses and healthcare professionals from across Nagaland.