On Friday, the 18th of October 2024, Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) announced the winners of its cleanliness awards, with the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) taking top honors. The Chief Medical Director, Dr. Pokop W. Bupwatda Presented Awards to the cleanest wards in Jos University Teaching Hospital to encourage cleanliness in the wards and around the hospital environment.
Professor Benjamin Ugwu, Chairman of the selection committee, led the evaluation process. Prof Ugwu who was represented by Dr Innocent Emmanuel said, “We assessed each ward’s cleanliness, hygiene, patient’s care and relations”, Dr. Emmanuel explained. “The winners demonstrated exceptional commitment to maintaining a clean and safe space for patients.”
The CMD, Dr. Bupwatda then emphasized the importance of cleanliness, stating, “Cleanliness is next to godliness, and it plays a vital role in preventing communicable diseases while aiding in quick recovery of the patients.” He added that the awards will continue to encourage nurses to prioritize cleanliness.
The winners received cash prizes to further improve their wards. The recipients were:
1. First Prize: Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU)
2. Second Prize: Paediatric Surgical Ward 16 (repeat winner)
3. Third Prize: Paediatric Ward 17
Dr. Bupwatda congratulated the winners, saying “These awards recognize the dedication and hard work of our nursing staff. We will continue to promote a culture of cleanliness and excellence in patient care.”
The CMD also expressed his intention to make these awards quarterly to ensure that the hospital remains clean and healthy all year round for patients and their relations. The awards are part of the hospital’s ongoing efforts to maintain high standards of hygiene and patient safety.