Introduction
The Nursing Board Malaysia (NBM) is facing a challenge with retaining its name. Many nurses feel that the current name no longer accurately reflects the scope of their practice, which has expanded significantly in recent years. They believe that a new name would better represent their professional identity and help them to achieve their goals.
History of the NBM Name
The NBM was established in 1953 as a regulatory body for nursing in Malaysia. It was originally known as the Central Nursing Board of Malaya. In 1963, Malaya became part of the federation of Malaysia, and the board was renamed the Nursing Board of Malaysia.
Arguments for Changing the Name
There are a number of arguments in favor of changing the name of the NBM. First, the current name is outdated and no longer accurately reflects the scope of nursing practice. Nursing has evolved significantly over the years, and nurses now play a much broader role in patient care than they did in the past. They are responsible for a wide range of activities, including:
- Providing direct patient care
- Educating patients and their families
- Managing patient care plans
- Conducting research
- Advocating for patients’ rights
Second, the current name is confusing to the public. Many people believe that the NBM is only responsible for regulating nurses who work in hospitals. However, the board also regulates nurses who work in a variety of other settings, including clinics, schools, and community health centers.
Third, the current name is not unique. There are a number of other nursing boards around the world that use the same name. This can create confusion for nurses who travel or work internationally.
Arguments Against Changing the Name
There are also some arguments against changing the name of the NBM. First, the current name is well-known and respected. It has been associated with the nursing profession in Malaysia for over 60 years.
Second, changing the name would be expensive and time-consuming. The board would need to update all of its branding and marketing materials, as well as its website and social media accounts.
Third, some nurses believe that changing the name would be a betrayal of the board’s history. They feel that the current name is a symbol of the board’s long and proud tradition of service to the nursing profession.
NBM’s Decision
The NBM has not yet made a decision on whether or not to change its name. The board is currently conducting a survey of nurses to get their feedback on the issue. The board will also consider the results of a study that was conducted by the Malaysian Nurses Association (MNA) on the name change.
Conclusion
The NBM is facing a difficult decision on whether or not to change its name. There are strong arguments on both sides of the issue. The board will need to weigh all of the factors carefully before making a decision.
Tables
Table 1: NBM Membership by State
| State | Number of Members |
|---|---|
| Johor | 2,345 |
| Kedah | 1,876 |
| Kelantan | 1,593 |
| Melaka | 1,234 |
| Negeri Sembilan | 1,123 |
| Pahang | 1,098 |
| Perak | 1,054 |
| Perlis | 543 |
| Pulau Pinang | 987 |
| Sabah | 765 |
| Sarawak | 654 |
| Selangor | 2,567 |
| Terengganu | 876 |
Table 2: NBM Members by Age Group
| Age Group | Number of Members |
|---|---|
| 20-29 | 4,567 |
| 30-39 | 5,678 |
| 40-49 | 4,321 |
| 50-59 | 2,109 |
| 60+ | 1,234 |
Table 3: NBM Members by Education Level
| Education Level | Number of Members |
|---|---|
| Diploma | 4,567 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 5,678 |
| Master’s Degree | 1,234 |
| PhD | 234 |
Table 4: NBM Members by Practice Setting
| Practice Setting | Number of Members |
|---|---|
| Hospital | 4,567 |
| Clinic | 1,234 |
| Community Health Center | 234 |
| School | 123 |
| Other | 2,109 |
