Advanced Diploma in Occupational Health Nursing

Purpose

The primary purpose of the qualification is to provide the qualifying learner with

• The necessary competencies knowledge and skill that is required by the industries and specialist clinical nurse practitioners (Honors and Master's qualification).
• Specialised knowledge, skills, attitudes and competencies in Occupation Health that will enable them to register the Post Basic Diploma with the South African Nursing Council and to practice as an Occupational Health Nurse within the Southern African context.
• A basis for further/life-long learning.
• Marketability and employability that will enable her/him to contribute to the development and wellness of society, as well as the economy of the country.
• Recognised credentials for licensing in the speciality.

Rationale

This qualification is necessary in order to provide South Africa with a cadre of Occupational Health Nurse Practitioners.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL for access into the qualification is done in terms of the Recognition of Prior Learning policy of the School of Health Care Sciences, Institution and the South African Nursing Council.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to Bachelor's.

And

• Proof of registration with the South African Nursing Council as a General Nurse.
• Two years of clinical experience as a professional.

This qualification comprises of compulsory modules at NQF Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, 120 Credits

• Nursing Dynamics, 12 Credits.
• Occupational Health, 32 Credits.
• Occupational Health Nursing, 32 Credits.
• Research Methodology, 20 Credits.
• Occupational Health Nursing Practice, 24 Credits.

1. Identify, analyse and solve convergent and divergent problems (that relate to occupational, health and socio-economic issues, nationally and internationally) creatively and innovatively.
2. Work effectively and efficiently as an individual, and within multidisciplinary, multicultural teams, groups, organisations and communities.
3. Relate learning gained from individual experiences to academic knowledge gained, and vice versa. Apply research methodology and demonstrate an understanding of how scientific knowledge and skills contribute to the management, development and utilisation of resources.
4. Organise and manage oneself and one's personal and professional activities appropriately and ethically, taking into account the competency level.
5. Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing. Use science and appropriate technology effectively and critically.
6. Ensure a safe occupational environment for individuals and groups.
7. Use knowledge of cultural differences and similarities within the Southern African context.
8. Identify cultural issues and manage them effectively.
9. Participate in both informal and formal teaching and in-service training of peers and health care workers and professionals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Solve problems successfully using exploration, critical analysis and generation of alternative strategies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Demonstrate active co-operation with multidisciplinary, multicultural teams, groups, organisations and communities.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Compile a portfolio that reflects personal and professional growth, and knowledge gained during the period of training.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Determine the need for research and establish, manage and evaluate findings.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Demonstrate the use of organisational, self-management and ethical skills.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Demonstrate successfully the ability to develop a research proposal.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7

• Demonstrate the use of science and educational technology in an integrated and appropriate manner, during patient care and within the academic context.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8

• Demonstrate ability to ensure a safe environment.
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and acceptance during professional conduct.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9

• Defend the need for acceptance of cultural differences and similarities, and demonstrate competency in solving culture-related issues.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10

• Participate actively in informal and formal teaching and training of peers, workers and other health care professionals.

Integrated Assessment

Formative assessment through a combination, presentations and seminars, oral & written tests and project for clinical nursing includes clinical work and projects. Summative assessment integrated through written oral and practical examinations.