Professional Nurse Grade 1 to 2 (Specialty: Theatre) (2 posts) (Permanent position)

This permanent position offers a rewarding opportunity for a specialist theatre nurse to join Worcester Regional Hospital, operating under the Chief Directorate: Rural Health Services. The successful candidate will be one of two appointees and will work as an integral member of the multi-disciplinary team within the hospital’s Functional Business Unit of Theatre. The role centres on the provision of optimal, holistic and specialised nursing care, delivered within a robust professional, ethical and legal framework. The incumbent will be expected to ensure the effective utilisation of all resources, support nursing services in maintaining quality productivity, and uphold the highest standards of professional growth, ethical conduct and self-development. Participation in training is a core component, encompassing the mentoring of junior colleagues and contributing to relevant research activities.

The appointment is available at Grade 1 or Grade 2 depending on the applicant’s level of experience. Grade 1 requires a minimum of four years of appropriate, recognisable nursing experience after registration as a Professional Nurse with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) in General Nursing. Grade 2 requires a minimum of fourteen years of such experience, of which at least ten years must have been gained in the specific speciality after completing a one-year post-basic qualification in Medical and Surgical Nursing Science: Operating Theatre Nursing. All candidates must hold a basic R425 qualification, such as a diploma or degree in nursing, or an equivalent R683 qualification that permits registration with the SANC as a Professional Nurse. In addition, applicants require a post-basic nursing qualification of at least one year, accredited by the SANC in Medical and Surgical Nursing Science: Operating Theatre (R212), or a postgraduate diploma (R635) in Perioperative Nursing if they qualified via a four-year Bachelor of Nursing degree (R174) or equivalent.

A special concession exists for candidates who do not yet meet the stipulated registration requirements. They may still apply, provided they submit proof of their application for registration with the relevant council and proof of payment of the prescribed fees to that council on or before the day of the interview. This concession is reserved exclusively for individuals applying for the first time for registration in the post-basic qualification or postgraduate diploma in the relevant speciality.

The nature of the work demands flexibility, as the post requires the ability to work shifts during the day and night, as well as weekends, public holidays and overtime when required by a supervisor. Rotation within the theatre functional business unit is an inherent requirement of the job. Desired competencies include a comprehensive understanding of nursing legislation and the associated legal and ethical practices within a hospital environment, alongside strong critical-thinking and interpersonal skills. Excellent clinical skills are essential. This is a key role within a regional hospital setting, offering a chance to contribute meaningfully to the quality and safety of perioperative nursing care in the public health sector.