The community based focus of the hospital was a driving force behind this project. Not only is this a stepping stone in career advancement and job placement for unemployed individuals wishing to nurse, but it also creates capacity, and ultimately brings about improved availability of qua-lity health care to the communities.
A group of 24 learners commenced with their one year training course on the 15th of August. This training consists of an integrated theoretical and practical component, which will be offered by the nursing school, the hospital and selected clinics, over the next year. The excited group of students wanting to pursue a career in nursing consists of young school leavers, care givers and individuals, previously from other careers.
The four most popular basic nursing courses offered in South Africa, and currently accredited by the South African Nursing Council (SANC) are a four year degree/diploma; the Bridging course; the Enrolled nursing and the Enrolled auxiliary nursing courses.
In the Nursing Act, 2005 (No 33 of 2005) practitioners qualified in these courses are all identified as professional nurses. The qualification in basic psychiatry and midwifery can also be completed in one year, after registration as a general nurse, or as single qualification.
Each category cited has a scope of practice which guides the practitioner in their work.
The new trainees who successfully complete their training at the George Hospital will receive a South African Nursing Council certificate with an accredited quali-fication as an Enrolled Nursing Auxiliary, enabling them to practice in this category which constitute an essential link in the rendering of basic nursing care to the patient in the health care system. They can however further their training to translate to the next professional level as an Enrolled Nurse or a General Nurse.
The four year diploma or degree course is offered at higher education institutions only. For further enquiries about the George Hospital Nursing School and the current course fees as well as incentives e.g. course books included, contact Dr AJ Kotze at 044 802 4396.
The public can also contact the Western Cape College of Nursing, for information about the four year diploma course at 021 684 1226.
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Front row from left: Lecturers - Karen Fabricius and Gadija Erasmus. Second row from left: Marisha Mintoor, Amber-Lee Muller, Yolanda Avontuur, Teri Cook, Samantha Gawie, Laurika Saaiman, Misha Carelse and Yolanne Titus. Third row from left: Dornay Ceasar, Zeleaka Damons, Susan Telman, Chantelle Barnard, Nicolene Appollis, Philodilphia Sodlaka, Chaundré Singrew, Mavis Jibilikane, San-Maré Hopley, Jozelle Booysen en Chantal Claasen. Back row from left: Eldrich Human, Shanold Jacobs, Graham Carolus and Ceagan Harmse.
