Nurse Shortage

Congratulations on printing the column by Mary Ann Lewis (“A Crisis in Care: So Much Need, So Few Nurses,” Opinion, May 14) relative to the nursing shortage. I think it is about time the public knew about this. I think this particular subject should be investigated neven further. We are facing an even more serious situation than the present one.

The role of nursing must be carefully re-evaluated from every standpoint. Their technical skills have become much more sophisticated than can be imagined by people who do not work with them or even by the patients. They really belong in critical care situations and should be salaried accordingly. They certainly should not be doing the work of aides as too often happens currently.

ELSIE A. GIORGI, M.D.

Beverly Hills