Doctor @Ahnie_Etesin Calls Out Auxiliary Nurses, Ignites Heated Twitter Debate
A Nigerian doctor, @Ahnie_Etesin, has set social media on fire after publicly condemning the use of auxiliary nurses in private hospitals on her X handle ( Fomerly known as Twitter). Her stance against the employment of unqualified healthcare workers has sparked widespread reactions from nurses, doctors, and the general public.
In a now-viral tweet, @Ahnie_Etesin stated:
“My contribution to the Nigerian health system is to ensure I do not teach or train any Auxiliary nurse in any private hospital. This Auxiliary nurse thing has to really end.”
The tweet quickly gained traction, exposing deep concerns about the state of Nigeria’s healthcare system and triggering a fierce debate over responsibility, ethics, and patient safety.
“Even Senior Nurses Are Guilty” – Reactions Pour In
One of the most shocking responses accused high-ranking nurses of enabling the problem for financial gain:
“Even the nurses occupying top positions who are supposed to kick against quackery also own or co-own hospitals and employ these quacks for cheap labor, all because of selfishness. So who would really bring about the needed change?”
Another user painted a grim picture of private hospitals, where only one qualified nurse oversees an entire team of auxiliary nurses.
“The rot is so bad. You’d see a hospital with the matron as the only qualified nurse, and then the rest are auxiliary/quacks. I wonder if these qualified nurses are unaware that they are taking food out of their colleagues’ mouths. Why are you comfortable working with a quack?”
The Risks of Quack Nurses: A Disaster Waiting to Happen?
Several healthcare professionals raised concerns about the dangers of allowing unqualified personnel to perform nursing duties.
“When a trained nurse gives an injection, you don’t feel a thing. A trained nurse knows drug combinations and treatments and sometimes even points out errors made by doctors. A trained nurse is vital to a patient’s recovery.”
Others stressed that nursing education is rigorous for a reason.
“Nurses study anatomy, medical biochemistry, and other related courses for years due to the sensitivity of their job. Calling someone a ‘nurse’ just because they can set up drips is dangerous. There’s a reason nurses are trained for 5+ years.”
Doctors vs Nurses: Who Is to Blame?
While many nurses agreed with @Ahnie_Etesin’s stance, some pointed fingers at a larger issue—poor collaboration and hierarchy in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
“These are the same doctors who refuse to accept corrections from nurses when errors are pointed out in their care plans or prescriptions—all because of ego.”
Another user emphasized that private hospitals should not be allowed to train auxiliary nurses in the first place.
“To absorb them is a huge disservice to people who are training through the right process. No private hospital should be training any ‘auxiliary anything.’ CHEWs and HCAs are trained by Schools of Health Technology.”
What Happens Next?
The explosive discussion has once again raised concerns about Nigeria’s healthcare regulations. Should private hospitals face stricter penalties for employing unqualified staff? Will nurses and doctors unite to fight quackery together?
For now, the battle against auxiliary nurses continues—both on social media and in real hospital settings.
Charles Wealth is an accomplished healthcare administrator with decades of hands-on experience across various healthcare organizations in Nigeria and beyond. Known for his strategic leadership, operational excellence, and deep commitment to advancing the nursing profession, Charles brings a wealth of expertise to healthcare management, policy, and professional development.
As a co-founder and Editor at Fellow Nurses Africa, he plays a pivotal role in shaping content that educates, inspires, and unites nurses across the continent. His editorial vision focuses on amplifying the voices of nurses, highlighting best practices, addressing contemporary challenges in healthcare, and promoting professional growth within the nursing community.
With a strong background in healthcare administration, Charles is passionate about bridging the gap between clinical practice and effective leadership. He continues to contribute significantly to the development of robust healthcare systems and the empowerment of nurses through knowledge sharing and advocacy.
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