Resignations leave few nurses in Venezuela hospitals

Nurses in the Tachira state of Venezuela are leaving their jobs, with the main hospital of capital San Cristobal operating with only a fourth of the required personnel to face the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nurses interviewed in San Cristobal Central Hospital said low pay amid a large workload has prompted them to leave.

"It's hard to see people die because of the lack of staff," said nurse Jennifer Leal who said it's only nurses but also doctors who are lacking across the hospital.

The shortage of nurses and doctors in the Venezuelan public hospital network has worsened in recent years due to the massive resignation of health personnel, who struggle to make ends meet.

Nurses' salaries range between 2 and 3 US dollars per month.  An egg basket costs 2 dollars.

Salaries in Venezuela are fixed in the local bolivar, but prices are based on their value in dollars.

In addition to the low salaries, health workers are burdened by long and exhausting workdays, largely increased by the lack of timely relief in the different shifts and areas.

Fatigue has forced many to resign, particularly in the last 18 months when their duties have increased due to the care of COVID-19.