Job Advert Summary

TB HIV Care (THC), in existence since 1929, is an internationally recognised non-profit organisation. We provide health care services throughout South Africa to both the general population and communities at increased risk for HIV and TB, including adolescent girls and young women, sex workers and people who use drugs. THC provides a stimulating work environment and the opportunity to work with leaders in the field of HIV and TB prevention and care. Our work culture is adapted to the constantly-evolving South African health care environment and will suit solution-driven team players interested in opportunities for career development while working to connect people with care.
Purpose of Position
The Professional Nurse (PN) is responsible for comprehensive, integrated cascade of care, inclusive of diagnosing, treating, monitoring and evaluating communicable and infectious diseases. The PN will consult and provide preventative, curative and rehabilitative treatment/health care to people who inject drugs (PWID) on various clinical aspects (Adult Curative care inclusive of communicable, non-communicable diseases).

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12
• Diploma/degree in Nursing (NQF Level 5)
• Dispensing license preferable, or a willingness to study towards this
• NIMART preferable, or a willingness to study towards this
• A minimum of 2 years’ community nursing experience
• A minimum of 1 years’ experience working with Key Populations
• Experience with Ni MART, ART Clubs, Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH), previous experience in key populations/PWID
• Registration with the South African Nursing Council as a professional nurse
• Computer literate in MW Word, Excel and Power Point
• Proficiency in English and isi Zulu language
• Valid code 08 driver's licence
• Willingness to travel as and when required

Duties and Responsibilities

• Communicating and determining the status of the client and or referring to historical records to evaluate and establish treatment/medication required
• Analysing symptoms and conducting specific examinations and/or conducting tests and physical assessments
• Interpreting and/or seeking clarity from Clinical Supervisor on specific test results and providing client with an explanation on treatment sequence according to Protocol, Policy and Guidelines
• Making a nursing diagnosis according to policy, protocol and Guidelines
• Prescribing/administering the necessary medication/drugs in required dosages to control infection in line with Policy guidelines.
• Implementing and integrating policy and programmes relating to PHC – Women’s
• Managing follow up care of referrals.
• Initiating, managing and prescribing clients diagnosed with HIV for ART according to Protocol, Policy and Guidelines. * Only applicable to Organisations who operate in medical settings with access to Pharmaceuticals and NIMART trained staff.
• OST initiation management, doting and follow-ups
• Conduct comprehensive prior- OST initiation assessment
• Monitor and manage withdrawal symptoms
• Monitor and manage opioid overdose
• Manage Dr appointment visits
• Keeping accurate, up-to-date records of medical supplies, equipment and drugs in own area of operation
• Updating Clinical records and registers: Referral, Linkage, ART, HTS
• Participating in meetings: networking and stakeholder engagement
• Keeping abreast with new clinical developments e.g. training, in-service training, reading journals, policies, and procedures related to job
• Assisting with assessments
• Implementing rapid test continuous quality improvement: Independent quality control and proficiency testing for HIV RDTs
• Checking and reinforcing first aid skills and understanding emergency procedures and linkages to care
• Assisting with referral pathways – building networks
• Providing health education on Family Planning, healthy lifestyles and social responsibility
• Attend meetings, briefings, debriefing, staff meetings and other as directed to do so on a regular basis
• Be a role model to strengthen positive behaviour change of PWID and the programme team