SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Nursing 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
97747  Bachelor of Nursing 
ORIGINATOR
Vaal University of Technology 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree(Min 480)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Curative Health 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  480  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2034-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The instructional programme leads to a qualification that enables a learner to register as a nurse (general, psychiatry, community) or a midwife with the South African Nursing Council, which is the professional organisation controlling and regulating nursing in South Africa.

Rationale:
This qualification is a planned combination of learning outcomes that culminates in the development of an independent nurse practitioner and midwife who will be competent to apply scientific nursing and midwifery skills and technologies in the administration and management of a comprehensive health service based on research findings.

The learner intake is to take local and regional health needs into consideration using the step up approach to increase the numbers as healthcare facilities are for both public and private stakeholders. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The Institution's RPL is to be taken into considerations in most students of nursing are most likely to be of eighteen and above and may have done other health related qualifications.

Application of the South African Nursing Council policy, increasing access, mobility and career path with in nursing education circular 18/19 dated 13 December 1999,1(b), takes into consideration that the Bachelors Degree should allow auxiliaries access to the four year qualification applying the principles of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Entry Requirements:
Admission requirements for this qualification are:
  • Senior Certificate (SC) with endorsement.
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) passed with Bachelor's Degree admission. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises compulsory modules at NQF Level 8, totalling 480 Credits.

    Fundamental modules at NQF Level 8, totally 66 Credits:
  • Biological Sciences, 36 Credits.
  • Social Sciences, 30 Credits.

    Core modules at NQF Level 8, totally 414 Credits:
  • Ethos and Professional practice, 22 Credits.
  • General nursing science, 74 Credits.
  • Psychiatric nursing science, 48 Credits.
  • Community nursing science, 45 Credits.
  • Midwifery, 55 Credits.
  • Pharmacology, 16 Credits.
  • Health services management, 30 Credits.
  • Research, 14 Credits.
  • Clinical learning, 110 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply the theory of biological natural sciences in the provision of comprehensive nursing and midwifery care.
    2. Identify and address ethical and legal issues based on the suitability of different value and legal systems to nursing and midwifery practice.
    3. Promote health, prevent ill health, provide nursing care and promote rehabilitation of individuals and groups.
    4. Maintain optimal health of a woman, baby, pre-partum, intra-partum and post-partum.
    5. Render congruent mental health care for individuals, family and community in the changing society.
    6. Apply knowledge of theory of psycho social sciences to comprehensive nursing and midwifery care.
    7. Demonstrate professional and clinical leadership in managing health care facilities.
    8. Understand pharmacology and apply in the medical, surgical, midwifery and psychiatric nursing. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Interpersonal relations are promoted through utilisation of effective communication.
  • Understanding of the aspects of the sick role is demonstrated.
  • Individuals, families, groups and communities are identified and educated on environmental factors affecting health.
  • Ability to assess, diagnose and manage aspects of the sick is demonstrated.
  • Patients are treated with respect, dignity and integrity.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Batho Pele Principles are facilitated and maintained during the nursing/midwifery regimen.
  • The history of nursing is reflected upon and insight into trends of the past that influences the present and future changes in nursing are demonstrated.
  • Awareness of personal values belief system and personal philosophy is demonstrated.
  • Ethical, legal and professional account if identified and applied when rendering patient care.
  • Knowledge of patient's rights and protecting them through the advocacy role is demonstrated.
  • Knowledge of Labour Relation issues, occupational health and the protection of worker's rights is demonstrated.
  • Human and financial resources are analysed and monitored, the budgeting process is implemented and cost containment measures to improve the quality of health care and services rendered are applied.
  • A balance between professional responsibilities and own human and employment rights are illustrated.
  • The implications of the ethical, philosophical and legislative framework influencing nursing practice are interpreted.
  • Professional excellence is maintained through developing plans for professional growth and development.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Understanding of concepts related to community nursing science is demonstrated.
  • knowledge and understanding of the following factors affecting health is demonstrated:
    > Dynamics of health and diseases.
    > Economic influence.
    > Environmental influences.
    > Politics.
    > Political system.
    > Population to be served.
    > Authorities responsible for healthcare.
    > Health care personnel.
    > Management system.
    > The strategic planning of health services.
    > Legislation.
    > International developments in healthcare with references to international organizations.
    > Literature on health matters.
    > Health support system (state + NGSs).
    > Ethical and religious influences.
  • Knowledge and sensitivity to cultural and religious factors influencing the health of individuals, groups/families and communities throughout the life-span is demonstrated.
  • Batho Pele principles, relevant legislation, constitution on human rights and charter of patient's rights in managing health of individuals, groups/families and communities are applied.
  • The role and function of the community nurse as a member of the multidisciplinary team at national and international level are identified.
  • The health needs of individuals, groups/families and communities are assessed and diagnosed using the available resources with the legal and ethical framework.
  • Care to address identified healthcare needs and problems are planned, implemented and evaluated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • The acquired knowledge of anatomy and normal physiology, to recognise normal aspects in the pregnant woman and her foetus is applied.
  • The acquired knowledge of basic needs in order to meet the identified needs of the individual, partner family and community also taking into consideration their cultural, psycho-social and spiritual needs are applied.
  • Acquired knowledge of the scientific process, terminology and appropriate use of technology and applicable skills pertaining to normal pregnancy are demonstrated in order to intervene appropriately during antenatal care.
  • The ability to refer and report problems to the multidisciplinary team is appropriately demonstrated.
  • Knowledge of pharmacology relating to normal pregnancy to prescribe is acquired and medicine is administered to the pregnant woman and her foetus.
  • The knowledge of professional and legal-ethical aspects of midwifery practice is applied to facilitate nursing care for the individual, families and community.
  • Knowledge of rendering applicable health education to the pregnant woman, family and community is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Psychiatric nursing skills used in psychiatric nursing science are identified.
  • Psychiatric nursing skills in daily interaction with individual, families groups, and communities are applied.
  • Psychiatric nursing skills are applied in crisis situations.
  • Various treatment approaches in psychiatric nursing care of individuals, families groups and communities such as supportive interview, group work and mental health education are applied.
  • The Patient is referred to other therapists for e.g. psychiatric, family therapy, etc.
  • Relevant provisions of the Mental Health Act no.18 of 1973/Mental Health Bill of 2000 (the latter to be promulgated) e.g. mechanical means of restrain sec.66 are applied.
  • Other legislation applicable to mental health are applied e.g. forensic psychiatric.
  • Ethical dilemmas in psychiatric nursing science are critically analysed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Health care needs and problems of individuals, families, groups and communities are assessed and diagnosed.
  • Knowledge on basic components of nutrition according to the nutritional needs of an individual in all the developmental stages within the cultural and socio-economic context is demonstrated.
  • Knowledge of nutrition on the prevention and management of nutritional deficiencies and diseases is applied.
  • Knowledge on food production, storage, preparation and preservation is demonstrated.
  • The necessary interventions for the following basic needs of the individual, family and community are assessed, diagnosed, planned, implemented and evaluated:
    > Activity, rest and sleep.
    > Elimination needs.
    > Hygiene needs.
    > Nutritional needs.
    > Respiratory needs.
    > Safety needs.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Health service to meet the needs and expectations of the patients/clients is planned and organised.
  • A variety of leadership styles and functions are demonstrated as an effective team member are utilised.
  • Participate in multi-disciplinary quality improvement groups and set standards.
  • An enabling environment that is therapeutic and meets the individual/family and community needs, for nursing intervention is created.
  • Principles of teaching and learning are applied when executing the teaching functions.
  • A plan for continued personal and professional development is developed.
  • The actual and potential areas for nursing research are identified and a mini research project is conducted.
  • Research projects results are interpreted, communicated, facilitated and implemented.
  • Principles of disaster preparedness on the possibility of disaster in the nursing unit and in the community are assessed and analysed.
  • The Nursing Act, related Regulations and the Code of Ethics of the South African Council in his/her nursing practice are applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the GIT on assessment of GIT ailments of the patients is applied.
  • Knowledge of the etiology, patho-physiology and clinical manifestations of GIT and oncological disorders is demonstrated.
  • Complications related to these disorders are identified.
  • Nursing diagnosis is made based on the assessment of the patients and a nursing care plan is formulated, implemented and evaluated.
  • Knowledge of relevant pharmacology regarding these conditions is demonstrated and relevant health education is provided.
  • Knowledge regarding the management of the patient undergoing surgery for GIT disorders and cancer is demonstrated.
  • Knowledge of the relevant biophysics and biochemistry during nursing care is applied.
  • Knowledge and understanding of the responsibilities of the nurse Intra-operatively is demonstrated and immediate pre-and postoperative care is implemented.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The qualification provides for both formative and summative assessments. The formative assessment focuses not only on the ethical knowledge, but also on the integration.

    For the purposes of this qualification's summative assessment learners will be subjected to the. Learners are required to interviews and or oral test and write a test to their understanding of concepts and basic skills. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    In Australia, they offer a similar qualification, Bachelor in Nursing. They focus on the development of professionals who are caring, adaptable, safe and ethical. The Bachelor of Nursing uses learner-centred approaches including inquiry- and situation-based learning to enhance learner's experiences as well as their readiness for the workplace. The learners can pursue a range of careers including, registered nurse, medical/surgical nurse, paediatric nurse, aged carer, community carer, developmental disability carer, maternal and infant carer and mental health carer.

    In Canada they offer the Bachelor of Nursing. The focus point is on the in-depth theoretical knowledge, extensive practice experience in a variety of health care settings, a keen understanding of nursing issues and ethics. Furthermore, the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment, a well-rounded education, a credential from a recognised and respected nursing qualification.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification compares favourably with the above cited international qualification in terms of the focus on knowledge, practice experience and variety of health care settings. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal articulation:
    This qualification articulates horizontally with Bachelor in Nursing Management, at NQF Level 8.

    Vertical articulation:
    This qualification articulates vertically with Master of Nursing in Midwifery, at NQF Level 9. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Vaal University of Technology 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.