Why are Venezuelan nurses resorting to side jobs?

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Venezuelan Nurses Undertake Additional Work Due to Severe Economic Hardship

Venezuelan nurses are compelled to seek supplementary employment as their official salaries are woefully inadequate to meet basic living expenses amidst the nation's profound economic crisis. These nurses often earn as little as US$10 per month, an amount insufficient to purchase even essential goods. Consequently, many have diversified their income streams by engaging in activities such as performing as mariachi singers, selling homemade products like hairspray, working as security guards, or undertaking various odd jobs to make ends meet.
Insufficient Salaries and Hyperinflation

The core driver behind nurses resorting to side jobs is the drastic devaluation of their earnings. Official nursing salaries, often as low as US$10 monthly, are rendered virtually worthless by hyperinflation, which the International Monetary Fund projected would reach one million per cent in the current year. This economic environment makes it impossible for nurses to afford fundamental necessities like rent, new uniforms, or even basic items such as socks. Some are even paid in kind, receiving goods like flour or lentils instead of monetary compensation.
Shortages and Operational Challenges in Healthcare

Beyond the personal financial struggles, the healthcare system itself faces critical deficiencies that exacerbate the nurses' plight. There are widespread shortages of medical supplies, with some sectors experiencing deficits of up to 80%. Furthermore, frequent and severe electricity blackouts disrupt hospital operations, posing significant risks to patient care. These systemic issues compound the difficulties faced by the remaining nursing staff.
Exodus of Professionals and Staff Shortages

The dire economic conditions and challenging work environment have led to a substantial exodus of nursing professionals from Venezuela. Since June 2018, approximately 15,000 nurses, constituting around 40% of the workforce, have resigned. This significant departure has resulted in critical staff shortages within hospitals, forcing those who remain to manage heavier workloads, sometimes with one nurse responsible for up to four patients, a situation described by the profession as "labour persecution."
Personal Sacrifices and Continued Service

Despite the overwhelming economic pressures and the temptation to resign, many nurses continue their demanding roles out of a deep-seated desire to serve their fellow citizens. For instance, Edgar Fernandez, a nurse earning US$10 a month, performs as a mariachi singer to supplement his income. He also faces the challenge of sleeping at the hospital due to his inability to afford rent. Similarly, Francis Guillen, another nurse, produces and sells hairspray, earning in a single day what she makes in a month as a nurse, yet remains committed to her profession.

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Why are Venezuelan nurses resorting to side jobs?

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