Nurses Union President: “All the Nurses Were Out Because They Were Actually Sick”

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Concerns over healthcare conditions on the family islands have once again come under scrutiny after videos circulated on Facebook of matters in Bimini and Abaco.

In Bimni, a patient was seen being transported in the back of a truck, with a nurse holding an umbrella over the patient to keep them dry.

Since then, Bimini MP Randy Rolle called for swift intervention, highlighting their need for an ambulance.

He has since announced that an ambulance was received on the island.

However, Nurses Union President Muriel Lightbourne says while that may relieve some pressure, she alleges South Bimini still does not have an ambulance.

Muriel Lighbourne – President, Bahamas Nurses Union

“I think for now what we’re just doing is being satisfied of putting a band-aid on things.”

Then, there’s Abaco, where nurses at the Marsh Harbour Community Clinic called out sick for three days last week.

The clinic has reportedly been dealing with mold, leaking roofs and a broken air conditioning system.

While the absence of the nurses was seen by some as a staged sick out, Lightbourne says that was not the case.

Muriel Lighbourne – President, Bahamas Nurses Union

“It came off as a stay-sick-out because all of the nurses were out. But all of the nurses were out because they were actually sick.”

Lightbourne says she experienced the conditions firsthand, and says the environment was not suitable for staff or patients.

“But honestly, I could say to you the condition was not good. One of my shop girl who was with me…instantly she had developed irritation in her eyes as well. I sat in that clinic for a while sitting with those two nurses, and then I started to have headache and issues with my throat,” Lightbourne said.

The Nurses Union president adds the Ministry of Health has since responded to the concerns.

In a social media post, the Ministry confirmed repair work is underway on the clinic’s air conditioning system, while a permanent replacement of the aging units is being advanced through an Inter-American Development Bank loan program.

Lightbourne confirms nurses returned to work Monday with adjustments made while the work continues.