title: Emptying commodes and washing patients are vital.
abstract: The statement about qualified nurses looking down on HCAs as if all they can do is 'empty commodes, wash and dress patients and make beds' horrified me (letters September 6). I was a nursing auxiliary for ten years before becoming a registered nurse. I have the utmost respect for all members of the nursing team, especially the HCAs, as do my qualified colleagues. Emptying commodes, washing and dressing patients and making beds are vital components of caring for patients.
authors.forename: Lynne
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Leys