As in 2009, the Italian Government WANTS to downgrade Nurses and Nursing! The EFN is concerned about this political decision that has a serious impact on the delivery of care. It is critical that the Italian government keeps pace with the current European trends and with the positive developments that Italian nurses have already achieved, in particular with the criteria and articles as set out in the European Directive on Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications (Directive 2005/36/EC). The Italian Government should be proud of the clinical research capacity of the nursing profession and should share this evidence with other Member States to address the health system reform.
With the changing demographics of society, increased healthcare needs and restrictions in economic resources, nurses are an important part of the solution of many challenges. The development of a single specific discipline for nurses shall be recognised through a high qualified education at University level, supported by University positions and careers for different nursing areas led by well prepared and qualified nurse professors.
