Circular 7/2023 Non-adherence to the Scope of Practice by Nurse Practitioners

 

TO:        NATIONAL DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

               PROVINCIAL DEPARTMENTS OF HEALTH

               NURSING EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS (NEIs)

               ALL STAKEHOLDERS

SUBJECT – NON-ADHERENCE TO SCOPE OF PRACTICE REGULATIONS BY NURSE PRACTITIONERS

 

  1. PURPOSE

    • The purpose of this correspondence is to sensitize Practitioners on the importance of adherence to the Scope of Practice Regulations R.2127 promulgated on 3 June 2022.

     

    1. BACKGROUND

     

    • The South African Nursing Council is a statutory body that is empowered by the Nursing Act 2005, (Act No. 33 of 2005) to protect the public in matters involving health services in general and Nursing services in particular.
    • The Preliminary Investigation Committee (PIC) is a Committee established in terms of Section 15 of the Nursing Act 2005, (Act No. 33 of 2005) and mandated to investigate all reported cases of alleged unprofessional conduct against Practitioners who are registered in terms of the Act. This is to ensure that the provision of Nursing services complies with set standards, values and national health policies.
    • On analysis of reported cases, PIC has noted with concern perpetual non-compliance by Practitioners to legislation and regulatory frameworks, specifically the Scope of Practice Regulations, resulting in bad outcomes for end-users.
    • The Scope of Practice Regulations R.2127 were promulgated by the Minister of Health,

    Dr J Phaahla on 3 June 2022.

     

    1. DIRECTIVE

     

    • Nurse Practitioners are urged to familiarise themselves and comply with provisions of the Scope of Practice Regulations. Failure to do so, will result in them being held personally liable for their acts and omissions.
    • Regulations are easily accessible on the SANC website, sanc.co.za

     

    The contents of this Circular must be brought to the attention of all Practitioners and Nurse Managers in health establishments.

     

    Enquiries in this regard can be directed to Dr J Muswede, Senior Manager: Professional Practice on at jmuswede@sanc.co.za or Tel: 012 420 1008.

     

     

     

    _______________________                   

    DR NJ MUSWEDE

    ACTING REGISTRAR AND CEO

    S A NURSING COUNCIL

    DATE: ____________________

     

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