About Medicross Highway Rehabilitation Hospital

Netcare Medicross Highway Sub-Acute and Rehabilitation Hospitalis a 30-bed, specialized healthcare facility in Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal, that provides care for adult patients recovering from illness, injury, or surgery who require multidisciplinary restorative care.

Job Summary

The Akeso Nursing Unit Manager is responsible for the overall operational management, clinical leadership, and quality assurance within a designated Akeso mental health nursing unit. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care in line with Netcare’s values and regulatory requirements.

Job Responsibilities

Clinical Leadership & Management:

• Oversee the daily operations of the nursing unit, including staffing, resource allocation, and workflow management.
• Provide expert clinical guidance and supervision to nursing staff, ensuring adherence to best practices, Netcare policies, and professional standards.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans for patients in collaboration with the multidisciplinary team.
• Monitor and evaluate the quality of nursing care provided, implementing corrective actions as necessary.
• Act as a clinical expert and resource for complex patient cases and ethical dilemmas.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant healthcare legislation, regulations, and Netcare’s clinical governance framework.

Staff Management & Development:

• Recruit, onboard, and retain competent nursing staff for the unit.
• Conduct regular performance appraisals, provide constructive feedback, and identify development needs for nursing personnel.
• Facilitate ongoing education and training initiatives to enhance the clinical skills and professional growth of the team.
• Manage staff rosters, leave requests, and disciplinary processes in accordance with company policies.
• Promote a positive and supportive work environment that fosters teamwork and professional accountability.

Operational & Financial Management:

• Manage the unit’s budget effectively, controlling expenditure and optimizing resource utilization.
• Participate in strategic planning for the unit and contribute to the overall hospital objectives.
• Ensure efficient admission, transfer, and discharge processes for patients.
• Maintain accurate patient records and ensure data integrity.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and patient outcomes.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Liaise effectively with patients, families, and significant others, ensuring clear communication and addressing concerns.
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, departments, and external stakeholders to ensure integrated and holistic patient care.
• Participate in hospital committees and quality improvement initiatives.

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing or equivalent qualification (e.g., Diploma in Nursing Science and Midwifery).
• Current registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) as a Professional Nurse.
• Post-basic qualification in Psychiatric Nursing Science is essential.
• A management qualification or demonstrable management training would be advantageous.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-7 years of post-qualification experience as a Professional Nurse.
• At least 2-3 years of proven experience in a leadership or supervisory role within a mental health setting.
• Experience in managing staff, budgets, and operational processes.

Skills & Knowledge:

• Comprehensive knowledge of psychiatric nursing principles and mental health legislation.
• Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in conflict resolution, problem-solving, and decision-making.
• Sound understanding of quality assurance principles and risk management in a healthcare setting.
• Computer literacy (MS Office suite, hospital information systems).
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to changing environments.