Secretary Puno orders ban against improper use of nursing uniforms

All local chief executives have been directed to prohibit the improper display or use of registered nurses' uniforms in department stores, restaurants or bars that would demean the image and integrity of the nursing profession.

Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno issued memorandum circular 2006-144 enjoining governors, and city and municipal mayors to carry out the ban by stopping waitresses and entertainers from wearing skimpy modified nurses' uniforms.

"It has to be emphasized that only registered nurses can wear such uniform, which together with the nursing cap and pin, is a symbol of purity, commitment and service to mankind," Puno said in his memorandum.

Puno reacted to reports that models in shops and department stores, and waitresses and entertainers in bars, portray nurses by posing and wearing uniforms in sexually provocative styles.

The Philippine Nurses Association earlier asked the DILG for assistance in resolving the situation that have since then posed a growing concern against the nursing profession.

The nurses cited a similar act of enjoining movie producers from having characters that make fun with the uniform of the Philippine National Police. They said the uniform of registered nurses must be treated with respect also. - Ferliza C. Contratista/RAE