Registered Nurse (Disability and Rehabilitation) Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Provides nursing care to patients recovering from injury and illness, and assists and facilitates patients with disabilities to live more independently.
What does a Registered Nurse (Disability and Rehabilitation) do?
A Registered Nurse (Disability and Rehabilitation) provides nursing care to people recovering from injury or illness and supports people with disabilities to live as independently as possible. The work may focus on recovery, rehabilitation and ongoing support, including areas such as orthopaedic nursing, palliative care and rehabilitation nursing.
Specialisations
How to become a Registered Nurse (Disability and Rehabilitation) in South Africa
- Investigate the current education and professional requirements for practising as a registered nurse in South Africa with the relevant official body or accredited provider.
- If you are already a nurse, explore further study in disability and rehabilitation. The Postgraduate Diploma in Disability and Rehabilitation Studies is a relevant further-study option at NQF level 8, carrying 120 credits; it should not be assumed to be compulsory for this career.
- Consider areas of practice such as orthopaedic nursing, palliative care or rehabilitation nursing.
- Confirm current admission, provider, assessment and registration details before applying.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
This career suits someone interested in helping people recover from illness or injury and supporting people with disabilities to live more independently. Relevant nursing education provides a foundation, while the postgraduate diploma can support further specialisation in disability and rehabilitation. Verify current professional and study requirements with the appropriate official body or accredited provider.
Useful school subjects
- Life Sciences
- English
- Mathematics
Skills that may help
- Providing patient care
- Supporting recovery and rehabilitation
- Helping people with disabilities develop or maintain independence
- Compassionate communication
- Patient-centred support