INTRODUCING THE NEW STAFF NURSE CATEGORY: A POLICY ANALYSIS
Abstract
This article aims to clarify the role of the new nursing category “Staff Nurse” based on a national diploma at level 7 in order to assist nurse leaders to prepare educational programmes for this category, as well as the accompanying services to optimize their utilization.The new category of nurse is described in two documents from the SA Nursing Council: Regulation 171 and the template for the new Diploma qualification. The level descriptors of SAQA for level 7 can also throw light on the requirements and, comparing this qualification to that of the professional nurse, further clarifies the position of “Staff Nurse” in the work-force. Lastly, seven problems with the interpretation of the policy are discussed and possible answers proposed. The importance of preparing a new post structure for the nursing services in order to utilize the category appropriately is also highlighted.References
Directorate: Registration and Recognition of Saqa 2012. Level Descriptors for the South African Natonal Qualifications Framework. In: AUTHORITY, S. A. Q. (ed.). Pretoria: South African Qualifications Authority.
South African Nursing Council 2013a. Bachelor of Nursing Qualification registration template. In: SAQA (ed.). Pretoria: SAQA.
South African Nursing Council 2013b. Diploma in Nursing Qualification registration template. Pretoria: SAQA.
South African Nursing Council 2013c. Regulations Relating to the Approval of and the Minimum Requirements for the Education and Training of a Learner Leading to Registration in the Category Professional Nurse. . In: DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH (ed.). Pretoria: Government Gazette.
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