Migration Health Nurse

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to encompass over 173 member states and operates in more than 100 countries worldwide. The organization aims to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, focusing on the well-being of migrants and their communities. IOM's mission includes addressing the challenges of migration, providing humanitarian assistance, and facilitating the integration of migrants into host societies. With a workforce of over 18,000 employees, IOM is committed to upholding the rights and dignity of migrants, ensuring their health and safety, and fostering international cooperation on migration issues.

Job Overview:
The Migration Health Nurse will play a crucial role in the Migration Health Assessment Centre (MHAC) in Pretoria, South Africa. Under the supervision of the Sub-Regional Migration Health Assessment Program Coordinator and the Senior Migration Health Nurse, the nurse will be responsible for conducting medical assessments and providing healthcare services to migrants and refugees. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of the migration health assessment process, including medical examinations, laboratory testing, vaccinations, and TB management. The nurse will also be responsible for educating migrants about their health assessments and treatments, ensuring proper documentation, and maintaining high standards of care throughout the assessment process. The role demands a proactive approach to health management, collaboration with various partners, and adherence to IOM's health protocols and guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform daily nursing activities in the Migration Health Assessment Clinic (MHAC) to fulfill the technical requirements of resettlement countries, including medical examinations, laboratory testing, vaccinations, and TB management.
• Provide detailed information and explanations to migrants regarding the health assessment process and treatments.
• Ensure proper identification and follow-up through comprehensive history taking and accurate biodata collection.
• Implement Health Assessment Programme checklists and maintain standard universal precautions.
• Verify the proper transportation of samples to designated laboratories.
• Maintain and monitor the MHAC pharmacy and medical kits.
• Provide pre and post-counseling on TB and HIV education.
• Prepare administrative reports and program updates as necessary.
• Support mobile missions as applicable. 1
• Assist with pre-departure documents and briefings. 1
• Perform medical escort duties when required. 1
• Maintain collaborative relationships with partners for effective follow-up and information sharing. 1
• Collect and share statistical information with the Senior Migration Health Nurse. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Nursing from an accredited institution, with a valid nursing license to practice in South Africa. A minimum of three years of relevant clinical experience is required for Bachelor's degree holders, while Diploma holders must have at least five years of experience. Candidates should demonstrate excellent technical skills, particularly in phlebotomy, and have training or experience in TB management, mass immunizations, communicable diseases, and public health. Knowledge of clinical nursing principles, patient safety, and infection control is essential. Proficiency in MS Office applications is required, and a post-graduate diploma or degree in emergency care is advantageous.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Nursing from an accredited academic institution. The educational qualifications must align with the scope of responsibilities defined in the position descriptions. Additionally, candidates must hold a valid nursing license to practice in South Africa, ensuring compliance with local regulations and standards.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of three years of relevant clinical experience for those holding a Bachelor's degree, while those with a Diploma should have at least five years of relevant experience. Experience in areas such as Tuberculosis management, mass immunizations, and public health is highly advantageous. Candidates should also possess excellent bedside manner and a strong understanding of preventive care and disease control principles. Familiarity with patient safety and infection prevention protocols is crucial, along with demonstrated clinical expertise in nursing.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory. Additionally, proficiency in common local languages spoken in South Africa is highly desirable, as it facilitates effective communication with migrants and enhances the quality of care provided.

Additional Notes:
The position does not require travel. Any offer made to the candidate is subject to funding confirmation and medical fitness certification. IOM provides coverage against occupational accidents and illnesses under the Compensation Plan for the duration of the consultancy. However, consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance for non-occupational accidents or illnesses. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with its objectives, including discrimination and harassment. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.