PROFESSIONAL NURSE GRADE 1 TO 2 (SPECIALTY: MENTAL HEALTH) Garden Route District

This vacancy is for a Professional Nurse specialising in mental health, based within the Primary Health Care Support and Outreach unit of the Knysna/Bitou Sub-District in the Garden Route District. The successful candidate will work as a specialist nurse delivering both acute and chronic mental health care to clients of all age groups at primary health care facilities in the sub-district. The role sits within a broader district health system that emphasises community-based and integrated care, and the nurse will be expected to function both independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Applicants must hold a basic nursing qualification that allows registration with the South African Nursing Council as a Professional Nurse, such as the R425 diploma or degree, or an equivalent qualification. In addition, they need either a one-year post-basic qualification in Advanced Psychiatric Nursing Science accredited by the SANC, or a four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing plus a post-graduate diploma in Mental Health Nursing. Registration with the SANC is essential. A valid driver’s licence and a willingness to work overtime are inherent requirements of the job.

For appointment at Grade 1, at least four years of appropriate nursing experience after registration as a Professional Nurse in General Nursing is required. For Grade 2, candidates need a minimum of fourteen years of appropriate nursing experience, of which at least ten years must have been gained after obtaining the relevant specialty qualification. The post therefore offers an opportunity for both less experienced and highly experienced specialist nurses, with grading determined by the candidate’s years of relevant service.

The duties are broad and clinically demanding. The nurse will conduct culturally sensitive bio-psychosocial health assessments, design and implement treatment plans, and critically evaluate outcomes. They will also engage in case management, which includes organising, accessing, negotiating, coordinating and integrating services for mental health users. Health promotion and patient education are central, as is counselling and psycho-social rehabilitation to manage the effects of mental illness. In addition, the post involves training and clinical supervision of other health care providers, so good communication and leadership skills are important.

Candidates should possess strong psychosocial and health assessment skills, knowledge of mental health legislation and psychopharmacology, and the ability to use clinical equipment and manage budget levels. Experience in data management and accurate record keeping for mental health services is also required. Problem-solving, planning and organisational abilities are essential.

A notable condition is that no payment of any kind is required when applying. Candidates who do not yet have the stipulated registration may still apply, but they will only be considered if they provide proof of application for registration and proof of payment of the prescribed fees on or before the day of the interview. This concession applies only to first-time applicants for registration in the relevant specialty qualification. This is a valuable opportunity for mental health nurses to contribute to public health care in a scenic and busy district.