PROFESSIONAL NURSE GRADE 1 TO 3 (GENERAL: INTERNAL MEDICINE)

This vacancy is for a Professional Nurse Grade 1 to 3 specialising in general internal medicine at George Regional Hospital, which forms part of the Rural Health Services directorate within the Western Cape Department of Health. The position offers a structured career path across three grades, with responsibilities expanding according to the nurse’s level of post-registration experience. It is a clinical role based at a regional hospital, requiring direct patient care within internal medicine wards alongside a multi-disciplinary team.

To be considered, applicants must hold a basic nursing qualification recognised by the South African Nursing Council, such as a diploma or degree in nursing, or an equivalent qualification that permits registration as a Professional Nurse. Alternatively, a four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing or an equivalent combination of qualifications will also be accepted. All candidates must be registered with the SANC as Professional Nurses. Entry-level Grade 1 requires no prior experience after registration, while Grade 2 demands at least ten years of appropriate nursing experience and Grade 3 at least twenty years. An inherent requirement of the post is a willingness to work shifts, including night and weekend duty, public holidays, stand-by duties, overtime, and rotation across departments as operational needs dictate.

The ideal candidate should possess basic computer literacy in MS Office, the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, and strong verbal and written communication skills. Knowledge of nursing processes and procedures as outlined in the Nursing Act and SANC regulations is essential. Professionalism, sound interpersonal abilities, leadership qualities, flexibility, and competence in planning, organising, coordinating, analysing, problem-solving, and decision-making are all critical to success in this role.

Key duties include ensuring quality patient care by identifying nursing care needs, planning and implementing care, and educating nursing and other staff. The nurse will render advanced clinical nursing care and support clinical colleagues during surgical and medical procedures. Efficient and effective use of human, material and physical resources is required, as is maintaining professional growth, ethical standards, and personal development. The role also demands displaying the core values of the Western Cape Department of Health in all duties performed.

Notably, no payment is required when applying for this post, and candidates may be subjected to a practical assessment as part of the selection process. Individuals who do not yet hold the stipulated SANC registration may still apply, provided they submit proof of application for registration and proof of payment of the prescribed registration fees to the council on or before the day of the interview. However, this concession applies only to health professionals applying for the first time for registration in a specific category, including those who need to change their registration status. The post is advertised through the departmental circular system, and interested nurses are encouraged to review the full online advertisement for precise application details.