Despite the fact that the nursing profession has been considered as one of the most challenging careers, several African countries have managed to create and maintain the best nursing education system in the world. But the challenges still remain and more reforms are needed to improve the quality of education.
South Africa
Investing in nurse education is critical to improving the quality of health care. Nurses are the largest health care workforce in South Africa. They serve rural communities that lack access to health services and provide care for people who are sick. Moreover, nursing is a profession with a strong global reputation.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has outlined the need for investment in nursing education and faculty development. It also identified the need for improved clinical instruction. The new Nursing Qualifications Framework aims to address these gaps. It proposes a baccalaureate degree for professional nurses.
However, evidence from South Africa indicates that the education system is not sufficiently developed to meet the needs of the health system. This is mainly because of a lack of a coordinated planning process between the health and education sectors.
Need for more reforms to improve the capacity of educators and preceptors
Despite some progress, Sub Saharan Africa still has a shortage of qualified health professionals. This is largely due to a high rate of preventable diseases and injuries. This has exacerbated workforce expansion issues. These challenges require innovative ways to train.
The World Health Organization emphasized the need for investment in nursing education, clinical instruction and staff development. It also advocated for greater interaction between sectors. However, there is still a need for investment in faculty development and the review of curricula.
A new group of African nursing leaders is emerging, and they are participating in international efforts to ensure universal health coverage. This group of nurses is focused on improving patient care and quality health outcomes. They also advocate for greater investment in professional development and retention.
Requirement for a baccalaureate degree to qualify as a professional nurse
Increasingly, it is becoming mandatory for professional nurses in Africa to earn a baccalaureate degree. This may be due to the growing demand for nurses in the country, but it is also a result of the influence of nursing educators.
There is a wide range of baccalaureate degree programs available, each aimed at preparing graduates for entry-level positions in the healthcare industry. However, these programs require a number of prerequisite courses that students must complete before they can apply for admission. The baccalaureate nursing program is designed to prepare students for a career in nursing by incorporating technology-enhanced curriculum. The program is accredited by the Virginia State Board of Nursing.
The new framework for nursing qualifications (NFN) in South Africa is designed to address the glaring deficit in basic nursing care. It follows the global trend toward professionalisation.
Requirement for a 3-year staff nurse qualification
Historically, nursing education in Sub Saharan Africa has taken place at stand-alone training institutions. However, this is changing with the rise of nursing college affiliations to universities.
Nursing education is a complex discipline. It is a function of the environment in which it operates. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the need for investment in nursing education. There is a lot of literature about the relationship between nursing and patient safety. This is because nursing plays a central role in the coordination of health care services.
There is also evidence that the cost-effectiveness of distance education has been demonstrated by King. In addition, a number of countries have made university training a requirement for practicing nurses.
The World Health Organization also highlighted the need for investment in clinical instruction and staff development. However, this is not being implemented at a sufficient scale. This is in part due to the lack of a formalized system of planning and financing health professional development.
Requirement for a 2-year enrolled nurse in favour of a staff nurse with a 3-year college
Whether you’re a 2-year enrolled nurse in favor of a staff nurse at a 3-year college, you need to apply for state licensure before you can start your nursing career. Each state’s board of nursing provides the specific requirements you must meet.
Depending on your state’s licensing requirements, you may need to take a basic life support course. You may also need to obtain advanced cardiac life support certification. You may also be required to have a seasonal flu vaccination.
Usually, you will need to complete an associate’s degree in nursing. This will take approximately two years to complete, but it’s a great way to start your nursing career. You’ll need to take courses in maths, science, and English. You may also need to take courses in psychology and physiology.
