Nurses’ Knowledge and Perceptions of the New Nursing Qualification Framework at a Public Hospital in Gauteng

Background: A significant change in the landscape of the nursing qualification framework was implemented in 2019. There have been concerns and anxiety by the nursing fraternity about the change process from the legacy programmes to the new curriculum framework and qualifications for nursing. Anecdotal evidence indicated misconceptions about the new nursing qualification framework and nurses voicing their concerns about how it would affect their career progression. Purpose: Therefore, the study aims to explore and describe nurses’ knowledge and perceptions about the nursing qualification framework to support change and facilitate smooth progression between legacy and new nursing qualifications. Methods: The study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in the public sector in a suburban area in Gauteng. The research design was qualitative and descriptive. A purposive sampling method was used. Data saturation was reached with 15 participants. The self-report method was used for data collection using semi-structured individual interviews, and data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The research process was guided by ethical principles and measures to ensure trustworthiness. Findings: Two significant themes emerged from the collected data. The results indicated that the participants showed limited knowledge of the National Qualification Framework, which are the new nursing programmes being introduced and the recognition of prior learning. Overall, the participants perceived implementing the new nursing qualification framework negatively. Conclusions: To successfully implement the new qualifications, ongoing communication that addresses the scope of practice, financial implications, ensuring adequate support for professional development and facilitating collegiality amongst different nursing categories will be required.