IMSS Praises its Nursing Workforce

In a statement, the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS) recognized the professionalization of its nursing staff, which is the institute's main workforce and essential to patient care. 

Nurses and nurse practitioners are involved in 70% of both direct and indirect patient care processes, providing around-the-clock support to meet patients' primary needs, according to Fabiana Zepeda, Head of the Nursing Coordination, IMSS. Since the introduction of academic recognition, over 37,869 nurses have attained this degree, enhancing the quality of care through evidence-based, personalized attention.

According to international literature, a bachelor's degree in nursing allows for more customized, scientifically supported care plans tailored to individual patient needs.

The IMSS operates seven nursing schools across Mexico, which are based in Mexico City, Jalisco, Nuevo Leon, Baja California, Sonora, and Yucatan. These institutions enroll 1,400 students pursuing their nursing degrees. Additionally, 19,735 positions have been upgraded from General Nurse to Clinical General Nurse, reflecting the increased expertise and expanded responsibilities in line with federal regulations, such as medication prescription within the scope of the nursing degree.

The IMSS is also advancing nursing education through master’s and doctoral programs focused on research and professional development. These programs have facilitated collaborations with other institutions and international entities, broadening the scope of nursing expertise.

The IMSS has made significant strides in staffing, having added 9,292 new nursing positions. Nurses play a crucial role across various care levels, from primary health promotion and vaccination campaigns to chronic disease detection and cancer screening at the first level, to patient recovery and rehabilitation at secondary and tertiary levels. They also manage discharge planning, integrate evidence-based care, and, in the absence of a physician, prescribe medications as per the General Health Law.

Zepeda also highlighted the enhanced capabilities of nursing staff, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated extensive, rapid training. This has led to a stronger, more recognized nursing workforce, reflecting a deeper societal appreciation for the care provided by IMSS nurses.