SCHEMES OF SERVICE FOR THE NURSING CADRE

THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA 

SCHEMES OF SERVICE FOR THE NURSING CADRE 

Ministry of Public Service, 

P. O. Box 7003, 

KAMPALA– UGANDA 

Tel: 041 4-250570/250543/6 

Fax: 0414-255463 

Email: ps@publicservice.go.ug 

Website: www.publicservice.go.ug 

November 2012 

Scheme of Service for the Nursing Cadre 

Page i

Table of Contents 

LIST OF ACRONYMS ............................................................................................................. 1 

1.0 INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................. 2 

1.2 NURSING ROLES (NURSING FUNCTIONS) ................................................................... 4 

2.0 AIM AND OBJECTIVES ............................................................................................. 5 

2.1 AIM ................................................................................................................................ 5 

2.2 SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES ................................................................................................. 5 

2.3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES .................................................................................................... 5 

2.4 PROFESSIONAL GROWTH AND ADVANCEMENT .......................................................... 6 

2.5 CAREER PROGRESSION ................................................................................................ 6 

2.6 COST EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS ................................................................... 7 

3.0 ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT OF THE SCHEME ...................... 7 

3.1 ADMINISTRATION OF THE NURSING SCHEME ............................................................ 7 

3.2 STAFF PERFORMANCE .................................................................................................. 8 

3.3 GENERAL MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES ....................................................................... 8 

4.0 EXISTING NURSING GRADING ........................................................................... 10 

4.1 PROPOSED EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS IN NURSING AND MIDWIFERY .................. 11 

4.2 RECOGNIZED QUALIFICATIONS ................................................................................. 12 

4.3 CAREER PROGRESSION FOR NURSES AND MIDWIVES IN UGANDA ....................... 13 

4.4 PROPOSED SCHEME OF SERVICE FOR THE NURSING CADRE IN UGANDA .......... 14 

4.5 EXPLANATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................... 15 

5.0 JOB DESCRIPTIONS AND PERSON SPECIFICATIONS ............................. 16 

5.1 COMMISSIONER NURSING .......................................................................................... 16 

5.2 ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER NURSING ...................................................................... 20 

5.3 ASSISTANT DISTRICT HEALTH OFFICER (MCH/N) ................................................ 24 

5.4 PRINCIPAL NURSING OFFICER ................................................................................... 29 


Page ii

5.5 PRINCIPAL PUBLIC HEALTH NURSE .......................................................................... 32 

5.6 SENIOR NURSING OFFICER ......................................................................................... 35 

5.7 SENIOR PUBLIC HEALTH NURSE ................................................................................ 40 

5.8 NURSING OFFICER....................................................................................................... 44 

5.9 SENIOR ASSISTANT NURSING OFFICER .................................................................... 45 

5.10 ASSISTANT NURSING OFFICER .................................................................................. 50 

5.11 ASSISTANT NURSING OFFICER (MIDWIFERY) ............................................................... 54 

5.12 ENROLLED NURSE ...................................................................................................... 58 

5.13 ENROLLED MIDWIFE .................................................................................................. 61 

5.14 ENROLLED NURSE ...................................................................................................... 64 


Page iii

LIST OF ACRONYMS 

GoU 

MoFPED 

MoPS 

MDAs 

LGs 

Government of Uganda 

Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development 

Ministry of Public Srrvice 

Ministries, Departments and Agencies 

Local Governments 

Scheme of Service for the Nursing Cadre Page 1

1.0 INTRODUCTION 

The Uganda Nurses and Midwifery Act (1996) section 2 defines a nurse 

as “a person trained and qualified in the promotion of health, prevention 

of disease and care of the sick and registered or enrolled under section 

24 of the same Act”. A nurse therefore provides holistic care which 

involves physical, psychological, social and spiritual care. 

The word Nursing is derived from the Latin word “nurture” which 

means to “nourish”. Since 2000 B.C. nursing has been associated with 

care of people in need that is the sick, the helpless, the young, the 

injured or disabled. 

Nursing first started as a desire to keep people healthy as well as 

provide comfort, care and assistance to the sick. This objective has been 

maintained over time. The practice of nursing has evolved into a 

modern profession due to the changing characteristics of society. 

Florence Nightingale (1843- 1950) is recognized worldwide for her 

contribution to modern nursing and promotion of nursing training and 

patient care. 

In Uganda, Sir Albert Cook was the founder of medical work in the 

country. He arrived in Uganda in 1879 with 12 recruits, one of whom 

was Katherine Timson, who later married Dr. Cook. During the first 

world- war (1914- 1918), the first healing and training centre in Uganda 

was established at Mengo by Dr. Albert Cook. He first trained male 

dressers and male assistants in Uganda. 

Due to the need for maternity services, Katherine Cook began midwifery 

training under the Uganda Medical Services in 1919 at Mengo. Later, 

nurses’ training at enrolled level was started and the first class of 

Nurses qualified in 1933. In 1956, a course for Assistant Health visitors 

was started. This marked the beginning of community health training 

for Nurses in Uganda. 


On April 12 th 1956, the Uganda Nurses and Midwives` Council was 

formed and took over the responsibility for the training of all nursing 

personnel and regulation of nursing standards. This marked an 

administrative turning point in the growth of nursing in the country. 

In 1961, a new course of registered general nursing commenced at 

Mulago for girls and boys who had Cambridge school certificate of 

Ordinary level education with a credit in English and one of the science 

subjects. In November, 1967 Registered Midwifery course was also 

started at Mulago. Mental Nurse training was started at Butabika in 

1960. In 1970`s and early 1980`s a number of development courses 

were introduced such as Nurse/Midwifery Tutors` course, 

administration course , public health nursing , anaesthesia and 

ophthalmic skills. 

The Health Sector Reform including decentralization necessitated the 

need for a cost effective, multipurpose cadre of a nurse, capable of 

delivering the minimum Health Care Package. The majority of trained 

health personnel were deployed in the secondary and tertiary health 

facilities that are based in urban areas and were responsible for 

providing mainly curative services. This meant that the rural population 

was left without access to services of trained health personnel. The 

introduction of the Government policy of establishing health centres at 

village, parish, sub-county and county levels throughout the Country 

reinforced the need to have multi-skilled health workers to provide the 

range of services intended at the health centres hence the introduction 

of Comprehensive Nursing cadre who would provide basic promotive, 

preventive, curative and rehabilitative health care at lower level health 

centres. 

Comprehensive Nursing courses at Registered and Enrolled levels were 

introduced in 1993 and 2003 respectively and training of a Bachelor of 

Science in nursing (1993). The regarding of jobs in 2003, as a result of 

job evaluation exercise necessitated a review of the scheme of service 

for the nursing cadre in the Public Service. Since then a number of 

changes have been introduced in the nursing profession. 


1.2 Nursing Roles (Nursing Functions) 

Nursing is viewed as a process and a nurse as a person who can work 

effectively and help to create conditions in which other people can 

function satisfactorily. 

The Nursing functions include advocacy, disease prevention, health 

promotion, health education/training, counselling, therapeutic, 

research, co-ordination and collaboration. 

1.2.1 Advocacy 

A nurse as a health care consumer advocate has the role of ensuring 

that clients and patients are aware of all the available health services in 

any given area of practice. They are informed adequately of the 

treatments and procedures involved in the nursing care when possible 

and encouraged to change or support existing health care practices. 

1.2.2 Disease Prevention/Health promotion 

A nurse is expected to practice within the overall framework of 

preventive health. The role of a nurse is to plan care that fosters every 

aspect of growth and development. Besides preventing physical disease 

and injury the nurse has a role to promote mental health. 

1.2.3 Health Education/Teaching 

Health teaching or health education may be a direct or indirect goal of a 

nurse. This is one area where nurses feel competent because it involves 

translating information rather than receiving messages. 

1.2.4 Counselling 

Attention of emotional needs requires support and sometimes 

counselling by the nurse. 

1.2.5 Therapeutic Role 

Nurses are intimately involved with meeting the physical and emotional 

needs of patients and clients. Although nurses are responsible for 

instituting prescriptions, they are also held singularly accountable for 

their own actions and judgment regardless of written orders. 


1.2.6 Coordination and Collaboration 

Every nurse works independently, collaborating and coordinating on 

needs and interventions so that the final care plan is one that truly 

meets the patient’s needs. 

1.2.7 Research 

Nurses are individuals who mostly observe patients and clients in health 

and illness. If nurses’ interventions are shared with other people 

through publications then better health policies can be developed on 

researched evidence 

2.0 AIM AND OBJECTIVES 

2.1 AIM 

The general aim of the scheme of service is to streamline the functions 

and requirements for the nursing profession in order to clearly delineate 

career development and progression for the nurses in the Public Service. 

2.2 Specific Objectives 

i) To provide for a clearly defined career progression necessary to 

attract and retain suitably qualified nursing personnel into the 

Public Service. 

ii) To provide for a well defined job descriptions and person 

specifications for all nursing jobs. 

iii) To promote and protect nursing as a profession. 

2.3 Guiding Principles 

The scheme of Service is based on the following principles:- 

i) Continuous skills development; 

ii) promotion of the nursing profession and career development; and 

iii) cost efficiency and effectiveness. 


2.4 Professional Growth and Advancement 

A nurse is expected to grow professionally either vertically or 

horizontally. This may be through:- 

i) Up grading to improve on the current qualifications. 

ii) 

iii) 

iv) 

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) which may take 

various forms ranging from refresher courses, workshops to short 

and long term courses leading to Bachelors, Masters and PhD 

degrees. 

Research and publication of relevant material in the various 

nursing specialties. 

Continuous ethical and moral training to foster the required and 

acceptable attitude towards clients, patients and colleagues in the 

entire nursing and medical professions. 

2.5 Career Progression 

A Nurse can advance to higher grades on the basis of the following 

conditions:- 

i) Confirmation in appointment. 

ii) Evidence of satisfactory performance. 

iii) Existence of a vacant post. 

iv) Attainment of necessary qualifications and relevant work 

experience. 

v) Personal interest in career growth and development 

vi) Where there are no professional outlets a nurse shall be awarded 

appropriate incremental credit in accordance with existing 

regulations 


2.6 Cost Efficiency and Effectiveness 

A nurse must display specific and observable knowledge, skills and 

behaviours that are associated with effective functioning of the nursing 

profession 

i) Behaviour competences describing the effective traits and 

attitudes 

ii) 

Technical competencies that reflect skills and knowledge for 

provision of cost effective interventions that truly meets the 

patient’s needs. 

3.0 ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT OF THE SCHEME 

(a) The responsibility for the proper and effective administration and 

management of these schemes of service shall rest with the 

Responsible Officers of the Ministries, Departments, Agencies 

(MDAs) and Local Governments (LGs). 

(b) They will also be responsible for submissions to the Health Service 

Commission and other Service Commissions for recruitment, 

promotion and discipline. 

(c) 

All the duties and responsibilities in the schemes of service shall be 

carried out in the respective MDAs and LGs. Some duties shall be 

assigned to Officers irrespective of their designations depending on 

the approved structure of the MDAs and LGs. 

(d) All benefits and salaries will be paid by the respective MDAs and 

LGs. 

3.1 Administration of the Nursing Scheme 

The Schemes of service will apply to nurses in the Ministries, 

Departments, Agencies, Local Governments and will be administered by 

the Ministry of Health. They will be reviewed from time to time in 

collaboration with the stakeholders. 


3.2 Staff Performance 

Upon deployment, a respective Responsible Officer shall have full 

responsibility for the management of the Nursing Officer(s). The 

Responsible Officer’s responsibility shall include: 

(a) Management of the Nursing officer’s day to day performance 

at work 

(b) Periodic performance appraisals 

(c) Pay, training and discipline; and 

(d) Custody of personal and confidential records of the Nursing 

officer 

3.3 General Management Guidelines 

The general management guidelines shall be as follows: 

(a) Implementation of the Nursing Scheme 

In implementation of the scheme, the positions shall be redesignated 

to reflect the new titles introduced under the scheme. 

(b) Recruitment and Promotion 

Whether filling of a post requires recruitment from the open market 

or internally, an MDA shall declare the vacant post to the MoPS 

which will in turn clear the vacancy based on availability of funding 

for the post and then declare such vacant post(s) to a relevant 

Service Commission. 

Serving Officers shall be eligible to progress to higher ranks on 

attaining of higher qualification and /or having served the 

required minimum number of years. The Officers shall further be 

subjected to Service Commission interviews. 

(c) 

Deployment 

i) Filling of posts in Ministries and Departments will normally be 

filled through deployment or posting. 


ii) In the case of Local Governments, the Responsible Officer will 

be responsible for the posting to various departments or 

sections as the case may be. 

(d) 

Training 

i. Training will be initiated and financed by the Ministries, 

Departments, Agencies (MDAs) and Local Governments where 

the Officers will be serving. The Ministries, Departments, 

Agencies and Local Governments will consult the Ministry of 

Public Service for professional and policy guidance. 

ii. 

iii. 

iv. 

Newly recruited Officers and those transferred within service 

shall be oriented and inducted into the service by the 

respective Ministries, Departments, Agencies and Local 

Governments. 

For professional training that is not available in the country, 

arrangements should be made for training abroad; consistent 

with the needs of the work of the individual within available 

resources. 

Completion of specific training will not necessarily lead to 

promotion. The successful completion of relevant 

management and professional training will normally be taken 

into account in the promotion process. Long term training in 

the relevant field attracts annual salary increment which 

should be in accordance to the prevailing Standing Orders. 

(e) 

Professional Growth and Advancement 

A nurse is expected to grow professionally either vertically or 

horizontally. This may be through:- 

i) Up grading to improve on the current qualifications. 

ii) 

Continuous Professional Development which may take 

various forms ranging from refresher courses, workshops to 


short and long term courses leading to Bachelors, Masters 

and PhD degrees. 

iii) 

iv) 

Research and publication of relevant material in the various 

nursing specialities. 

Continuous ethical and moral training to foster the required 

and acceptable attitude towards clients, patients and 

colleagues in the entire nursing and medical professions. 

4.0 EXISTING NURSING GRADING 

The table below represents the existing grading of the Nursing cadre: 

S/No Existing Job Title Salary 

Scale 

1. Commissioner Nursing U1 

2. Assistant Commissioner Nursing U1 

3. Senior Principal Public Health Nurse U2 

4. Senior Principal Nursing Officer U2 

5. Principal Nursing Officer U3 

6. Senior Public Health Nurse U4 

7. Senior Nursing Officer U4 

8. Nursing Officer U5 

9. Senior Enrolled Nurse U5 

10. Senior Enrolled Midwife U5 

11. Senior Enrolled Psychiatric Nurse U5 

12. Public Health Nurse U5 

13. Enrolled Nurse U7 

14. Enrolled Midwife U7 

15. Enrolled Psychiatric Nurse U7 


4.1 Proposed Educational Programs in Nursing and Midwifery 

(a) Certificate Level Education 

i) Certificate in Enrolled Nursing 

ii) Certificate in Enrolled Midwifery 

iii) Certificate in Psychiatric Nursing 

iv) Certificate in Enrolled Comprehensive Nursing 

(b) 

(c) 

Diploma Level Education 

i) Diploma in Nursing 

ii) Diploma in Midwifery 

iii) Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing 

iv) Diploma in Comprehensive Nursing 

Post -basic Diploma qualification 

i) Child Health (Paediatric) Nursing 

ii) Palliative Care Nursing 

iii) Public health 

iv) Reproductive health 

v) Cardio-Thoracic Nursing 

vi) Critical Care Nursing 

vii) Trauma and Emergency (Ambulatory) Nursing 

viii) Theatre Nursing 

ix) Orthopaedic Nursing 

x) Neurology Nursing 

xi) Oncology Nursing 

xii) Neonatal Nursing 

xiii) Nephrology Nursing 

xiv) Infection Control Nursing 

xv) Geriatric Nursing 

xvi) Transfusion Nursing 

(d) 

Degree level education 

i) Bachelor of Nursing Science 


ii) Bachelor of Midwifery Science 

(e) 

Post graduate Level Education 

Master of Nursing Science in a specialized field of nursing or 

midwifery: 

i) Adult Health Nursing 

ii) Child Health Nursing 

iii) Midwifery 

iv) Mental Health Nursing 

v) Public/Community Health Nursing 

vi) Palliative Care Nursing 

vii) Geriatric Nursing 

viii) Critical Care Nursing 

ix) Leadership and Management 

x) Other relevant qualifications in nursing 

(f) 

Current Masters Programs 

i) Masters in Midwifery 

ii) Masters in Nursing 

iii) Masters in Public Health 

4.2 Recognized Qualifications 

The following are the recognized qualifications for the purpose of this 

scheme: 

(a) Diploma in Midwifery 

(b) Diploma in Nursing 

(c) Nurse/Midwifery Tutors` course 

(d) Health Management & Administration course 

(e) Palliative care Nursing 

(f) Public health nursing 

(g) Diploma in Comprehensive Nursing 

(h) Bachelor of Science in nursing 

(i) Masters of Nursing Science 


Admission into Certificate training in all disciplines of nursing 

will be phased out by 2015. It is hoped that by 2020 P/S will 

stop recruiting Nurse/Midwifes trained at a certificate level. 

4.3 Career Progression for Nurses and Midwives in Uganda 

Certificate Nurses 

Diploma 

Nurses 

Degree Nurses 

Awards 

MASTERS IN 

NURSING OR MIDWIFERY 

MASTERS 

BACHELOR OF NURSING 

SCIENCE 

DEGREE 

DIPLOMA IN 

NURSING AND 

MIDWIFERY 

DIPLOMA 

ENROLLED 

NURSING AND 

MIDWIFERY 

CERTIFICATE 

SENIOR FOUR 

SENIOR SIX 

SENIOR SIXIX 

MINIMUM ENTRY 

LEVEL 


4.4 Proposed Scheme of Service for the Nursing Cadre in Uganda 

S/N 

TITLE/ 

DESIGNATION 

1 Commissioner Health 

Services 

(Nursing) 

SALARY 

SCALE 

U1SE 

DEPLOYMENT 

MOH-Nursing Department 

2 Assistant 

Commissioner Health 

Services (Nursing) 

U1-E 

MOH-Nursing Department 

in HRD, HRM, Clinical Services, 

Maternal Child Health, Policy & 

Planning, Quality Assurance 

and Research 

3 Principal Nursing 

Officer 

U2-Sc 

National and Regional Referral 

Hospitals and areas of 

specializations: 

Medical Nursing 

Surgical Nursing 

Child Health Nursing 

Midwifery 

Mental Health Nursing 

Public Health Nursing 

4 Assistant District 

Health Officer 

(MCH/Nursing) 

5 Senior Nursing 

Officer 

U2-Sc 

U3-Sc 

Office of the DHO 

Hospital Wards in National, 

Regional and District Hospitals 

6 Senior Public Health 

Nurse 

U3 

Regional Referral Hospitals, 

Regional and District Hospitals, 

District Hospitals, HC IV 


7 Nursing Officer U4-Sc Hospital Wards in National, 

Regional, District Hospitals, HC 

IV and III 

8 Senior Assistant 

Nursing Officer 

U4-SC 



IV, III and II 

9 Assistant Nursing 

Officer 

U5-Sc 



IV, III and II 

10 Enrolled 

Nurse/Midwife 

U7-Sc 

11 Nursing Assistant U8 Phased out 

District Hospitals, HC IV, III 

and II 

4.5 Explanations and Recommendations 

(i) 

(ii) 

All Nurses and Midwives should be registered by the Uganda 

Nurses and Midwives Council before practicing Nursing in 

Uganda. 

The current SPNOs should be redesignated to PNOs in the new 

structure. 

(iii) The current Principal Nursing Officers should be redesignated to 

Senior Nursing Officers. 

(iv) The current Senior Nursing Officers should be redesignated as 

Nursing Officers 

(v) The title of the Nursing Officer is proposed for the graduate nurses 

(vi) Nurses and Midwives with other added post basic training are 

eligible to promotion subject to availability of vacancies 

(vii) Nurses and Midwives with diploma currently in the service should 

be interviewed by the relevant Service Commission and 

redesignated as Assistant Nursing Officers 


(viii) Enrolled Comprehensive Nurses should be employed at the Health 

Centres as Enrolled Nurses. 

(ix) Registered Comprehensive Nurses should enter into service at the 

level of Assistant Nursing Officers and should be deployed to work 

as a General Nurse 

(x) Comprehensive nurses should undertake formal area of 

specialization at a vertical and horizontal level. 

(xi) The post of Nursing Assistants has been phased the incumbent 

holders shall be considered for appointment to a higher grade or 

redeployment else in service in a position at the same level for 

which she is qualified. In case the above is not possible, he/she 

will be given a grace period of 3 years within which he/she will be 

considered for retention, failure of which he/she will be considered 

for retirement in accordance with the public service regulations. 

5.0 JOB DESCRIPTIONS AND PERSON SPECIFICATIONS 

5.1 Commissioner Nursing 

Job Title: 

Commissioner Health Services (Nursing) 

Salary Scale: 

U1SE 

Heads Dept: 

Reports to : 

Director Health Services 

Directly Supervises: Assistant Commissioner Health Services 

(Nursing) 

Interacts with: Permanent Secretaries MoH and MoES, 

Director community and clinical services, 

Professional councils, Commissioners(MOES), 

Director planning, Directors of Medical 

bureaus, Assistant Commissioners, 

Development partners. 

Purpose of the Job: 


To initiate, guide, coordinate and monitor the formulation and 

implementation of policies, plans and guidelines relating to the nursing 

profession. 

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

(a) To initiate, guide, coordinate and monitor the formulation and 

implementation of policies, plans and guidelines relating to the 

nursing profession. 

(b) To guide and monitor the in-service training and professional 

development of nurses. 

(c) To guide and monitor the deployment and utilization of nurses in 

the Public Service. 

(d) To Institute and maintain professional mechanism for 

coordinating with other stakeholders on the development and 

management of the nurses. 

(e) Ensuring appropriate recruitment and adequate deployment of 

Nursing Staff in all Government Units. 

Key result areas 

(a) Policies have had a considerable effect/impact on improving 

professionalism, working conditions, and service delivery. 

(b) Strategies have been effective in achieving objectives 

(c) Access to information, new skills, shared knowledge that has led 

to improvements in the nursing profession as a result of 

networking with national and international bodies 

(d) Nurses have been deployed in a timely manner and to the right 

places and this deployment has led to improvement in service 

delivery 

(e) A professional mechanism has been instituted and its results 

include professional nurses who are offering a quality service, 

cooperation with stakeholders that enhances effective lobbying for 

improvements in nursing 

(f) Adequately competent nurses have been recruited, deployed to the 

right stations, and this action has led to improvements in service 

delivery 


Person Specifications 

A. Qualifications 

(i) A Bachelor’s of Science degree in Nursing from a recognized 

University/Institution. 

(ii) Postgraduate training at masters level in a health related 

discipline 

(iii) Should have a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Administration or 

Health Services Management or management 

(iv) Must be registered with the Uganda Nurses and Midwives 

Council. 

(v) Must have a minimum of twelve (12) years work experience, 3 

years of which must be Assistant Commissioner Nursing or 

equivalent level of experience obtained from a reputable 

organisation. 

B. Required Competences 

(a) Required Competences 

(i) Behavioural Competences 

Problem solving and decision making 

Takes care of macro and long term consequences of 

decisions 

Accountability 

Upholds the principles of value for money 

Takes initiative and puts in place control measures to 

combat and eradicate 

misuse of public resources 

Is able to enforce accountability for organizational 

performance 

Effective Communication 

Communicates information which sets new corporate 

and political direction and has a large public impact 


Understands that communication (achieving 

understanding of one’s point) is the responsibility of 

the speaker 

Creates or develops complex documents by analysing a 

variety of ideas, views and issues into a fluid and 

cohesive fashion and articles of thought, processes 

and information in a profound and persuasive way to 

provoke audience to thought or action. 

Ensures written material is factual and based on 

authoritative research 

Uses appropriate examples, anecdotes, illustrations 

and humour to convey ideas. 

Innovativeness 

Actively contributes to and encourages others to build 

an environment for innovation. 

Drives out fears by fostering an environment where 

other people’s new ideas can be heard and supported. 

Takes action to implement and follow up on innovative 

ideas. 

Networking 

Uses the network to identify opportunities, gather 

information and seek input to problems with a view to 

sustaining Public Service excellence. 

Takes action that in the long run will build 

relationships and support current and future 

endeavours. 

(ii) Technical Competencies 

Financial Management 

Is able to defend organizational/departmental budget 

estimates 

Is able to identify clear expenditure priorities and 

funding. 


Is able to monitor and evaluate budget performance 

and cause remedial action. 

Human Resource Management 

Has the knowledge required to provide guidance to the 

organization and stakeholders about HR policy matters 

Change Management 

Understands the various Public Service Reforms and 

other Government reforms. 

Is able to establish the link between the organization 

and the government’s agenda 

Is able to discern the impact of the entity on 

stakeholders. 

Planning, Organizing and Coordinating 

Demonstrates an in depth understanding of linkages 

and relationships between organizations, and takes 

timely actions in facilitating groups and departments 

working together 

5.2 Assistant Commissioner Nursing 

Job Title: 

Salary Scale: 

Reports to : 

Directly Supervises: 

Interacts with: 

Assistant Commissioner Health Services 

(Nursing) 

U1E 

Commissioner Health Services/ Deputy 

Executive Director (NRH)/Medical Directors 

(RRH) 

Principal Nursing Officer 

Commissioner Health Services (Nursing), All 

CHS & ACHS, Hospital Directors, Executive 

Directors, DHOs, ADHOs, Professional 

Organization, Principal Nursing Officers 

Purpose of the Job 


To provide professional guidance and support supervision for effective 

delivery of nursing services. 


(a) To assist the commissioner nursing services to plan, organize and 

coordinate programs of the nursing department. 

(b) To supervise, monitor, and evaluate nursing services in the hospital 

(c) To coach and mentor nursing professionals 

(d) To enforce ethical professional conduct in the provision of nursing 

services 

(e) To provide technical guidance and support supervision to Nurses in 

the Health facilities. 

(f) To plan and coordinate the implementation of quality assurances 

programmes. 

(g) To participate in teaching and mentoring of students 

(h) To identify training needs and plans for training and staff 

development. 

(i) To initiates and participate in nursing research activities for 

evidence- based practice. 

(j) Carries out performance appraisal of staff 

Key Result Areas 

(a) Quality of care is good and patient satisfactory ratings have 

improved 

(b) Programs of nursing department have been fully implemented and 

those programs have realised their intentions. 

(c) Nurses do a professional job and are aware of the consequences of 

not being professional 

(d) Nurses have acquired hands on skills and experience, and it is 

evident that patients are receiving quality nursing services 

(e) Zero tolerance for unethical conduct has been set; nurses 

adequately appreciate and realise that unethical conduct leads to 

adverse consequences 

(f) Error margins in nursing work have reduced to acceptable levels 

because of technical guidance and support supervision 


(g) Role modelling – evidence that Assistant Commissioner Health 

Services exhibits professionalism and competence – walks the talk 

(h) Skill gaps have been filled through apprenticeship programs and 

nurses’ are confident and competent to do a professional job 

(i) Research has contributed to the body of knowledge, and research 

has led to innovations that are beneficial to the profession 

(j) Nurses do the work that is expected of them in a professional 

manner; and this result is a consequence of the commissioner’s 

professionalism in managing performance through continuous 

supervision, and periodic appraisals 



(i) 

(ii) 

(iii) 

(iv) 

(v) 

A bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a recognized 

university or institution 

Postgraduate training at masters level in a health related 

discipline is essential 

Should have a post graduate Diploma in Health Services 

Management or Management 

Must be registered with the Uganda Nurses and Midwives 

Council. 

A minimum of Nine years work experience, three (3) years of 

which at the level of Principal Nursing Officer or equivalent level 

of experience from reputable organisation. 

B. Required Competencies 

(i) Behavioural Competencies 

Assertiveness and self-confidence 

Analyses divergent views objectively 

Articulates his/her view as the most logical conclusion. 

Deals positively and firmly with situations that are stressful or 

challenging 


Concern for quality and standards 

Recommends and implements changes to procedures in order 

to achieve performance targets and meet expectations. 

Uses initiative to define quality criteria/standards for the 

performance of own, or others work where none exists or where 

there is a variety of inconsistent standards. 

Ethics and integrity 

Demonstrates ability to monitor and take corrective action to 

ensure adherence to organizational values, norms and 

principles. 

Openly and clearly expresses dissatisfaction when 

organizational values are being compromised, even at risk of 

losing personal or career benefits. 

Is committed and champions the Leadership code. 


Coaching and mentoring 

Arranges increasingly complex leaning opportunities or 

experiences for the purpose of fostering the learning in order to 

make the individual independent. 

Seeks to develop expertise, skills or knowledge in the individual 

being coached to the point that the coach is no longer needed 

as a resource. 

Delegation 

Is able to identify what to delegate and what must not be 

delegated 

Willingness to give away some of his/her responsibilities 

without abdicating 

Is able to give adequate time to staff to manage the assignment 

Articulates the purpose and tasks clearly 

Provides all the necessary documentation on the subject matter 

Sets realistic targets 

Periodically follows up on agreed targets 

Provides guidance and coaching whenever necessary 


Praises the employees for work well done 

Able to identify existing knowledge and skills of staff and 

identify gaps 

Human Resource Management 

Has the knowledge required to provide guidance to the 

organization and stakeholders about HR policy matters 

Planning, organizing and coordinating 

Plans allocation of staff, funds, tools and facilities. 

Develops and implements work plans for complex projects. 

Demonstrates a strong understanding of the relationships 

among various components of programs and organizes them to 

use resources most effectively 

Builds capacity through coaching, counselling, rewards, 

reinforcement of positive behaviour and effective design of 

planning systems. 

Procurement, disposal and contract management 

Understands the principles of public procurement and disposal 

Knows the various methods of public procurement and 

disposal 

Is aware of the procurement and disposal processes 

Monitors adherence to Terms of Reference. 

Able to identify necessary amendment(s) to the contract in time 

5.3 Assistant District Health Officer (MCH/N) 

Job Title: 

Salary Scale: 

Reports to : 



Assistant District Health Officer (Maternal 

Child Health/Nursing) 

U2 

District Health Officer 

Senior Public Health Visitor, Senior Nursing 

Officer HCIV), Cold Chain Technician. 

Local and international NGOs, CAOs, RDCs, 

LCs 



To coordinate all Maternal and Child health services in liaison with 

heads of clinical areas 


(a) To plan, manage, monitor and evaluate Maternal Child Health 

services delivery in the District. 

(b) To monitor the implementation of Maternal Child Health Policy, 

Plans and Programmes. 

(c) To coordinate MCH and Nursing Services in the District. 

(d) To supervise of the Health Management System in the District. 

(e) To promote operational research in MCH. 

(f) To appraise staff in the district. 

(g) To Prepare and submit reports on MCH and Nursing activities. 

(h) To promote quality assurance in MCH and Nursing Services 

Key result areas 

(a) Child survival rates and health of mothers have reasonably 

improved. 

(b) Mothers have adequate access to Maternal Child Health Services. 

(c) Obstacles to accessing Maternal Child Health Services have 

reduced and more mothers have access to maternal child health 

services. 

(d) Accurate and timely decisions have been made on basis of accurate 

health data collected in a disciplined manner with the use of the 

health management system. 

(e) Objectives pursued with the use of Policy, plans and programmes 

have been achieved. 

(f) Research has contributed to the body of knowledge, and research 

has led to innovations that are beneficial to the profession. 

(g) Clients, patients, mothers’ satisfactory rating for MCH, and nursing 

services are high as a result of effective quality assurance 

programmes. 


(h) Nurses/midwives do the work that is expected of them in a 

professional manner; and this result is a consequence of the 

Assistant District Health Officer’s professionalism in managing 

performance through continuous supervision, and periodic 

appraisals. 

(i) Quality reports have influenced decisions on MCH and nursing 

services. 



(i) A Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from a recognized institution 

(ii) Postgraduate diploma in Public Health, Health Services 

Management or related Management qualifications from a 

recognized Institution. 

(iii) Must be registered with Uganda Nursing and Midwives Council 

as nurse and midwife. 

(iv) Masters Degree in nursing, Public Health or Public 

Administration and Management is an added advantage. 

(v) Should have working experience of at least six(6) years 3 of 

which should have been at either Senior Nursing officer or in 

management position from a reputable clinical Practice. 



Assertiveness and self confidence 

Is able to work with minimum supervision 

Consults when necessary 


Does not require external monitoring to observe ethical 

standards but rather monitors own actions for consistency with 

accepted values and standards. 

Openly advocates for observance of ethical values and principles 

to others. 


Self control and stress management 

Holds back extreme emotions such as anger, extreme frustration 

and happiness 

Quickly goes over effects of stress 


Endeavours to have clear information that relates to roles, 

performance expectations and tasks and accountability. 

Maintains current and thorough records. 

Takes action to improve performance and to ensure success. 

Monitors progress against key criteria. 


Human resource management 

Has analytical skills needed to make sound HR decisions 

Is able to interview for suitability for recruitment and promotion 

Is able to assess staff performance 

Can coach and mentor staff 

Is able to delegate and supervise staff 

Planning organizing and coordinating 

Adjusts plan appropriately and takes initiative to follow through 

rather than wait for problems. 

Anticipates problems, takes advantage of opportunities and 

effectively deals with them. 


Provides routine exchange of knowledge with others to help them 

carry out assignments. 

Gives detailed instructions and/or on the-job demonstration 

Asks the individual being coached questions about their 

effectiveness 

Listens for appropriate responses and provides encouragement 

and support for action. 

Reinforces behaviour that produces positive outputs. 


Provides information and directs the individual to other sources 

of information in order to allow them navigate. 

Procurement disposal and contract management 

Understands the institutional framework for managing 

procurement and disposal in Public Service organizations. 

Is aware of the roles of the various actors in the process of 

procurement and disposal of public assets. 


5.4 Principal Nursing Officer 

Job Title: 

Salary Scale: 

Reports to : 



Principal Nursing Officer 

U2 

Assistant Commissioner Nursing/ Medical 

Director/ Medical Superintendent 

Senior Nursing Officer 

Assistant Commissioner, Principal Nursing 

Officer, Hospital Director and Executive 

Director, DHO, ADHO, Professional Bodies, 

Heads of Departments 


To coordinate all nursing services in liaison with heads of clinical areas 


(a) To provide professional guidance and support supervision 

(b) To plan, organize , and coordinate nursing services in the hospital 

(c) To plan and implement quality assurance programmes/ activities 

(d) To enforce ethical professional conduct in the provision of nursing 

services 

(e) To conduct performance appraisal 

(f) To conduct and utilize evidence-based research to improve nursing 

practice 

(g) To participate in teaching and mentoring nursing students 


(a) Nurses’ error rates have been minimized to acceptable levels, and 

patient satisfaction levels are high. 

(b) Nurses are competent and skilled and they do a professional job. 

(c) Quality of care is appreciably high and patient admission time has 

reduced. 

(d) Patient cure rates have improved to appreciable levels. 

(e) Research has contributed to the body of knowledge, and led to 

innovations that are beneficial to the profession. 


(f) Zero tolerance for unethical conduct has been set; nurses 


adverse consequences. 

(g) Nurses/midwives do the work that is expected of them in a 


Principal nursing officer’s professionalism in managing performance 

through continuous supervision, and periodic appraisals. 

(h) High pass rates for nursing students and highly competent nursing 

graduates. 



(i) A Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a recognized 

University or Institution. 

(ii) Post-graduate diploma in specialized field of nursing or a 

postgraduate diploma in health services or management 

(iii) Must be registered with the Uganda Nurses and Midwives 

council 

(iv) Minimum of six (6) years work experience, three (3) of which 

should be at senior nursing officer level 


(i) 

Required Competencies 

Behavioural Competencies 

Ethics and Integrity 

Does not require external monitoring to observe ethical standards 

but rather monitors own actions for consistency with accepted 

values and standards 

Openly advocates for observance of ethical values and principles to 

others. 



Holds back extreme emotions such as anger, extreme 

frustration and happiness 





Maintains current and thorough records 


Monitors progress against key criteria 





Human resource management 

Has analytical skills needed to make sound HR decisions 

Is able to interview for suitability for recruitment and promotion 

Is able to assess staff performance 

Can coach and mentor staff 

Is able to delegate and supervise staff 


Provides routine exchange of knowledge with others to help 

them carry out assignments. 



effectiveness 







Planning, organising and coordinating 





Procurement disposal and contract management 


procurement and disposal in Public Service organizations 


procurement and disposal of public assets 

5.5 Principal Public Health Nurse 

Job Title: 

Salary Scale: 

Reports to : 



Principal Public Health Nurse 

U2 

Assistant Commissioner Nursing 

Senior Public Health Nurse 

Assistant Commissioner Nursing, Principle 

nursing officer, Hospital Director and 

Executive Director, DHO, ADHO, Professional 

bodies, Heads of department. 

Job Purpose: 

To support the implementation of primary health care activities . 


(a) To plan, organize and coordinate primary health care activities 

(b) Managing and accounting for recourses allocated 

(c) Identifying priority PHC activities for implementation 

(d) Providing, promoting and support health education programmes 

in collaboration with health education unit and other teams in 

the district 

(e) Participate in disease surveillance programmes 

(f) Initiated and participate in community based research activities 



(a) All persons in communities, irrespective of their economic levels, 

can access reasonable and adequate health care services. 

(b) No irregularities in the use of allocated resources. 

(c) Disease prevalence has drastically reduced as a result of 

addressing priority PHC activities, supporting health education 

programmes, and participating in disease surveillance 

programmes 

(d) High levels of health care literacy and improved health of persons 

at community level resulting from implementation of health 

education programmes 

(e) Research has contributed to the body of knowledge, and led to 

innovations that are beneficial to the profession 



(i) A Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from a recognized 


(ii) A post graduate diploma in Public Health Nursing from a 

recognized institution 


Council 

(iv) A minimum of six years work experience, three (3) of which 

should be at the level of Senior Public Health Nurse 



Concern for Quality and Standards 













values and standards. 


others. 

Networking 

Has strong interpersonal skills. 

Takes full advantage of membership of occupational or 

professional groups/associations, cross-organisational committees 

and communities of practice. 

Easily gets involved in discussion of areas of mutual interest. 


Seeks the thoughts of others in an effort to better understand 

them. 

Responds by giving clear, concise and accurate information. 

Volunteers additional information that may not have been 

requested in order to provide the listener with relevant information 

related to the issue. 

Formats the material based on the purpose of communicating, the 

competences of the target audience and in a way that facilitates 

the understanding of the message. 

Formats writing to increase readability e.g. by providing content 

headings. 


Is knowledgeable about Government of Uganda Accounting 

procedures, rules and regulations. 

Is able to set realistic performance and service delivery standards. 


Technical Competencies 






Procurement Disposal and Contract Management 


procurement and disposal in Public Service organizations. 


procurement and disposal of public assets. 

Project Management 

Monitors the activities of the project 

Able to design an effective monitoring and evaluation strategy for 

the project 

Ensures that each team member’s skills are being used in the 

optimum way 

5.6 Senior Nursing Officer 

Job Title: 

Salary Scale: 

Reports to : 




U3 

Principal Nursing Officer / Principal Public 

Health Nurse/ Medical Officers 

Nursing Officers 

Principal Nursing Officer, Hospital Director 

and Executive Director, DHO, ADHO, Medical 

Officers, Professional bodies, Heads of 

department. 



To ensure provision of physical, psychological, social and spiritual 

(holistic) nursing care and proper management of nursing services in the 

health facility 


(a) To plan, direct, coordinate, monitor, and evaluate nursing 

activities 

(b) To prepare and submit nursing reports 

(c) To ensure 24 hour nursing coverage in the health facility 

(d) To carry out human resource management activities like 

identifying manpower needs, training, promotional , leave and 

deployment 

(e) To impart knowledge and skills to students and colleagues 

(f) To participate in research activities for evidence based practice 

(g) To develop and implement nursing protocols 

(h) To carry out performance appraisal 


(a) Quality of nursing care has improved to satisfactory levels as a 

result of all nursing activities being funded and implemented in a 

timely manner 

(b) Patient satisfaction levels have greatly improved as a result of 

nurses following clearly written nursing protocols that define a 

care plan for nurses for each particular condition or disease 

(c) Decisions have been taken on basis of quality nursing reports 

(d) Patients cure rates have improved as a result of availability of 

quality nursing services all the time 

(e) Nurses’ stress levels are managed, and it is evident staff are given 

adequate time off work. 

(f) Nurses are competent and skilled and they do a professional job 

(g) Research has contributed to the body of knowledge, and research 


(h) High pass rates for nursing students and generation of highly 

competent nursing graduates 


(i) 

(j) 

Nurses/midwives do the work that is expected of them in a 


Principal nursing officer’s professionalism in managing 

performance through continuous supervision, and periodic 

appraisals 

Nurses’ error rates have been minimized to acceptable levels, and 

patient satisfaction levels are high 



(i) A Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from a recognized 


(ii) A diploma in specialized field is essential 

(iii) Three (3) years of relevant working experience 

(iv) Must be registered with the Uganda Nurses and Midwives council 

(a) 


(i) 

Behavioural Competencies 

Concern for Quality and Standards 









Ethics and Integrity 



accepted values and standards 


Openly advocates for observance of ethical values and 

principles to others. 

Networking 

Has strong interpersonal skills 

Takes full advantage of membership of occupational or 

professional groups/associations, cross-organisational 

committees and communities of practice 

Easily gets involved in discussion of areas of mutual interest 



them. 


Volunteer’s additional information that may not have been 

requested in order to provide the listener with relevant 

information related to the issue. 

Formats the material based on the purpose of communicating, 

the competences of the target audience and in a way that 

facilitates the understanding of the message 


headings 




Is able to set realistic performance and service delivery 

standards. 

Public relations and customer care 

Clarifies roles and duties to avoid being misunderstood. 

Takes personal responsibility for correcting customer service 

problems and does so promptly. 

Sees oneself as a representative of the organization and acts in 

a way that markets/promotes the organization. 








Managing Employee Performance 

In partnership with the employee, is able to plan activities and 

outlines expectations. 

Provides ongoing coaching and feedback appropriately and 

conducts formal review. 

Responds promptly to potential problems. 

Understands the organisations’ goals and objectives. 

Identifies competencies required of each job function for the 

achievement of those goals and is able to communicate that 

understanding to others. 

Using competency assessment tools, assists individuals to 

assess their skills, knowledge and abilities. Helps individuals 

identify development areas and establish a development or 

learning plan for implementation within a defined time frame, 

e.g. one year. 

Uses available resources to manage employees that perform 

below standard. 

Helps an individual clearly establish objectives for their job 

function. Clarifies their job responsibilities and measures of 

success. Helps them establish methods for self-assessment and 

performance improvement. 

Coaching and Mentoring 



Gives detailed instructions and/or on the-job demonstration. 


effectiveness. 







Information Communication Technology (ICT) 

Is able to trouble shoot to alleviate technology related problems. 

Is aware of and able to identify technologies needed to facilitate 

organizational. 

Is able to use audio visual aids. 

5.7 Senior Public Health Nurse 

Job Title: 

Salary Scale: 

Reports to : 



Senior Public Health Nurse 

U3 

Principal Public Health Nurse 

Public Health Nurse 

Principal nursing officer, Principal Public 

Health Nurse, Hospital Director and 

Executive Director, District Health Officer, 

Assistant District Health Officer, Professional 

bodies, Heads of department 


Manage health interventions in the community for the prevention of 

illness and promotion of health 


(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

To plan and budget for PHC activities at the health facility 

To carry out human resources management function 

To carry out needs assessment for community health services. 

To coordinate, give technical guidance and support supervision 

with regards to community health activities in hospitals/health 

facilities. 


(e) 

(f) 

(g) 

(h) 

(i) 

To ensure ethical practice in the provision of community health 

care 

To participate in community health based research 

To net work with other organizations working in the community to 

promote community health. 

To write supervision reports and circulate to the relevant 

authorities 

To ensure that the health management information is properly 

documented , analyzed and properly utilized 

Key Results Areas: 

(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

(e) 

(f) 

(g) 

Health care services can be reasonably provided to all persons at 

community level after implementation of adequate plans and 

adequately/comprehensively budgeted PHC activities 

Nursing personnel have contributed to patient satisfaction as a 

result of managing them in a professional manner 

Research has contributed to the body of knowledge, and led to 


Effective and timely decisions have been made basing on 

supervision report, and on properly maintained health 

management information 

Disease management and access to health care services has 

reasonably improved as a result other organisations providing 

resources for the purpose of promoting community health 

Zero tolerance for unethical conduct has been set; nurses 



Community satisfaction levels have reasonably improved as a 

result of adequate availability of community health services 



(i) 

(ii) 

Bachelors Degree in Nursing or Diploma in Nursing / midwifery 

A Diploma in Public or Community Health from a recognized 

institution 



Council 

(iv) A minimum of three years work experience at the level of a Public 

Health Nurse or equivalent level 

(a) 













standards 











conducts formal review 

Responds promptly to potential problems 

Understands the organisations’s goals and objectives. 




understanding to others 





e.g. one year 


below standard.. 




performance improvement 






effectiveness 






Information Communication Technology (ICT) 

Is able to trouble shoot to alleviate technology related problems 

Is aware of and able to identify technologies needed to facilitate 

organizational 

Is able to use audio visual aids. 


5.8 Nursing officer 

Job Title: 

Salary Scale: 

Reports to : 



Nursing officer 

U4 


Assistant Nursing Officer 

Senior Assistant Nursing officer, Senior Public 

Health Nurse, Hospital Director and District 

Health Officer, Assistant District Health 

Officer, Professional bodies, Heads of 

department 


To manage delivery of nursing care in health facility and community. 


(a) To perform administrative duties at ward/ unit level 

(b) To ensure that quality nursing care is achieved by implementing 

nursing protocols 

(c) To ensure the smooth running of wards/units by allocating duties 

to nursing staff and students 

(d) To ensure that wards/units are adequately equipped with 

equipment, supplies and drugs and ensure their safe custody. 

(e) To provides educational and counselling services to staff, and 

patient attendants. 

(f) To carries out on-job teaching of midwifery, medical and nursing 

students. 

(g) To participate in research and community education activities 

(h) Ensures strict adherence to ethical practice by self and the health 

care team. 

(i) To provide support supervision to staff on the unit. 

Key Results Areas 

(a) Quality of nursing care has improved patient satisfactory levels as 

a result of available nursing services within the wards all the time 



nurses following clearly written nursing protocols that define a 

care plan for nurses for each particular condition or disease 

(c) Patients are satisfied with nursing care as a result of proper 

deployment of nursing staff/students in the wards 

(d) Working conditions have been enhanced with availability of 

adequate medical equipment, supplies, and drugs 

(e) Nurses/midwife students are competent and confident and patient 

satisfaction levels have improved because of the quality care 

delivered by nurses/midwife students 

(f) Nurses/midwives do the work that is expected of them in a 


Nursing officer’s professionalism in managing performance 

through continuous supervision, and periodic appraisals 

(g) Research has contributed to the body of knowledge, and led to 




(i) Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from a recognized University 

(ii) Must be registered with the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council. 

5.9 Senior Assistant Nursing officer 

Job Title: 

Salary Scale: 

Reports to : 



Senior Assistant Nursing officer 

U4 

Senior Nursing Officer Or Senior Public 

Health Nurse 

Assistant Nursing Officer(s) 

Senior nursing officer, Senior Public Health 

Nurse, Professional bodies, Heads of 

department 


To manage delivery of nursing care in health facility and community. 



(a) To perform administrative duties at ward/ unit level 

(b) To ensure that quality nursing care is achieved by implementing 

nursing protocols 

(c) To ensure the smooth running of wards/units by allocating duties 

to nursing staff and students 

(d) To ensure that wards/units are adequately equipped with 

equipment, supplies and drugs and ensure their safe custody. 

(e) To provides educational and counselling services to staff, and 

patient attendants. 

(f) To carries out on-job teaching of midwifery, medical and nursing 

students. 

(g) To participate in research and community education activities 

(h) Ensures strict adherence to ethical practice by self and the health 

care team. 

(i) To provide support supervision to staff on the unit. 

Key Results Areas 

(a) Quality of nursing care has improved patient satisfactory levels as 

a result of available nursing services within the wards all the time 


nurses following clearly written nursing protocols that define a care 

plan for nurses for each particular condition or disease 

(c) Patients are satisfied with nursing care as a result of proper 

deployment of nursing staff/students in the wards 

(d) Working conditions have been enhanced with availability of 

adequate medical equipment, supplies, and drugs 

(e) Nurses/midwife students are competent and confident and patient 

satisfaction levels have improved because of the quality care 

delivered by nurses/midwife students 

(f) Nurses/midwives do the work that is expected of them in a 

professional manner; and this result is a consequence of the Senior 

nursing officer’s professionalism in managing performance through 

continuous supervision, and periodic appraisals 

(g) Research has contributed to the body of knowledge, and research 




B. Qualifications 

(i) A diploma in Midwifery/ General Nursing/ Psychiatry Nursing or 

Diploma comprehensive Nursing. 

(ii) Must have an area of specialization in a relevant/required field of 

nursing. 

(iii) Must be registered with the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council. 

(iv) Must have 3 years working experience at the level of Assistant 


(a) Required Competencies 














values and standards 


others. 

Effective communication 


them. 




requested in order to provide the listener with relevant information 

related to the issue. 

Formats the material based on the purpose of communicating, the 

competences of the target audience and in a way that facilitates 

the understanding of the message 


headings 




Is able to set realistic performance and service delivery standards. 





Sees oneself as a representative of the organization and acts in a 

way that markets/promotes the organization. 







Managing employee performance 










understanding to others 

Using competency assessment tools, assists individuals to assess 

their skills, knowledge and abilities. Helps individuals identify 

development areas and establish a development or learning plan 

for implementation within a defined time frame, e.g. one year 

Uses available resources to manage employees that perform below 

standard.. 




performance improvement 


Provides routine exchange of knowledge with others to help them 

carry out assignments. 



effectiveness 




Provides information and directs the individual to other sources of 

information in order to allow them navigate. 


5.10 Assistant Nursing Officer 

Job Title: 


Salary Scale: U 5 

Reports to : 


Directly Supervises: Enrolled Nurses/ Midwives/ Enrolled 

Comprehensive nurses 

Interacts with: Nursing Officer, Senior Public Health Nurse, 

Other Nursing Officers, Enrolled nurses 


To provide nursing services and public health interventions to 

patients/clients and the community 


(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

(e) 

(f) 

(g) 

(h) 

(i) 

(j) 

To receive patients, register admissions, discharges and deaths. 

To providing quality nursing care to patients 

To implement infection control guidelines and procedures 

To carry bedside nursing procedures 

To participate in ward rounds to access the condition of patients 

To manage and account for allocated resources. 

To participate in research activities 

To impart knowledge and skills to students and staff. 

To appraise staff performance. 

To compile and submit daily ward reports. 


(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

(e) 

Good reception of patients 

No instances of irregularities in the utilisation of allocated 

resources 

Increased cure rates and high response rates due to quality 

nursing care provided to patients 

Reasonable reduction in infections due to implementation of 

infection control guidelines 

Correct execution of medical procedures by students 


(f) 

Supervised staff have become more competent at executing their 

work after their skill gaps have been filled 


(a) Qualifications 

(i) Diploma General Nursing or Diploma Comprehensive Nursing 

from recognized institution. 

(ii) Must be registered with the Uganda Nurses &Midwives Council. 

(b) 



Time management 

Time Management involves applying a systematic process to 

accomplishing work responsibilities, activities and tasks that 

helps an individual to effectively achieve their goals. Often, a 

similar process can be useful in achieving personal goals as 

well. Effective time management involves such things as 

setting priorities, managing multiple projects and tasks, 

organising work and work resources, delegating and sharing 

work, concentrating time on high value activities and 

minimising low value activities. Regular planning is an 

essential element to time management and should result in 

plans for the achievement of both short and long-term goals. 

 

 

Maintains written short and long-term goals and related work 

activity plans. Plans daily, weekly and monthly activities 

designed to achieve yearly and multiyear goals. 

When assigned work, manages expectations appropriately. 

Communicates current work activities/responsibilities and the 

impact of the new assignment on their ability to achieve the 

desired results. Adjusts work activities as required to address 

changes in objectives. 


Maintains an organised work environment with easy access to 

necessary resources and files and with minimal clutter. 

 

Uses an effective personal planning and scheduling tool, either 

computerised or print-based. 

 

Maintains an organised filing system. 

 

Takes specific steps to evaluate how time is used and to 

eliminate time wastage. 









standards but rather monitors own actions for consistency 

with accepted values and standards. 



Public Relations and Customer Care 






Team Work 

Keeps team members informed and up to date 

Shares experiences, knowledge with team members 

Promotes cooperation amongst team members 

Praises team members for achievements 


Coaches team members whenever necessary 





Gives detailed instructions and/or on the-job demonstration. 


effectiveness. 




Provides information and directs the individual to other 

sources of information in order to allow them navigate. 

Records and information management 

Applies the bring up system to avoid delays in dealing with 

other issues on the files 

Is able to assess the security grading to the documents created 

or received by him/her 

Understands and applies registry and records management 

procedures and standards 


Adjusts plan appropriately and takes initiative to follow 

through rather than wait for problems. 













understanding to others. 





e.g. one year. 


below standard. 



success. Helps them establish methods for self-assessment 

and performance improvement. 

5.11 Assistant Nursing Officer (Midwifery) 

Job Title: 

Salary Scale: 

Reports to : 



Assistant Nursing Officer (Midwifery) 

U5 


Enrolled Midwife 

Senior Nursing Officer, Senior Public Health 

Nurse, Other Nursing Officers, Enrolled 

nurses 


To provide midwifery services to patients and clients. 


(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

To receive expectant mothers, register admissions, births, 

discharges and death. 

To carry out antenatal care with emphasis on identifying high risk 

cases and refer them to higher health facilities. 

To providing midwifery care during labor and puerperium 

To keep proper medical records 


(e) 

(f) 

(g) 

(h) 

(i) 

(j) 

(k) 

(l) 

To implement infection control guidelines 

To take care of new born babies and ensure successful breast 

feeding. 

To participate in ward rounds to assess the condition of the 

patients. 

To manage and account for allocated resources 

To participate in research activities. 

To impart knowledge and skills to students and staff. 

To compile and submit daily ward reports 

To appraise the performance of staff under his/her supervision. 


(a) Good reception of expectant mothers. 

(b) High risks to expectant mother have drastically reduced as a 

result of accessible antenatal care. 

(c) Reasonable reduction in deaths, injuries, and difficult labour as a 

result of providing professional midwifery care during labour and 

puerperium. 

(d) Healthier babies resulting out of providing adequate professional 

care for new born babies, and implementing successful breast 

feeding programmes. 

(e) Improved patient satisfaction resulting from reduction in 

absenteeism, and availability of nursing officer to assess patient 

conditions during ward rounds. 

(f) No instances of irregularities in the utilisation of allocated 

resources. 

(g) Infection rates kept at very low levels as a result of implementing 


(h) Research has contributed to the body of knowledge, and research 


(i) Effective and timely decisions have taken on basis of daily quality 

ward reports. 



(i) A Diploma in Midwifery from a recognized institution 


(ii) Must be registered with the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council 









accepted values and standards 



Effective communication 


them. 



requested in order to provide the listener with relevant 

information related to the issue. 

Formats the material based on the purpose of communicating, 

the competences of the target audience and in a way that 

facilitates the understanding of the message 


headings 





standards. 








Team work 

Keeps team members informed and up to date 

Shares experiences, knowledge with team members 

Promotes cooperation amongst team members 

Praises team members for achievements 

Coaches team members whenever necessary 

Self Control and Stress Management 

Holds back extreme emotions such as anger, extreme 

frustration and happiness. 








effectiveness 






Records and Information Management 

Applies the bring up system to avoid delays in dealing with 

other issues on the files 

Is able to assess the security grading to the documents created 

or received by him/her 


Understands and applies registry and records management 

procedures and standards 

5.12 Enrolled Nurse 

Job Title: 

Salary Scale: 

Reports to : 



Enrolled Nurse/ Enrolled comprehensive 

Nurse 

U7 


Support staff 

Assistant Nursing Officers, Support staff 


To carry out day to day activities of patient care 


(a) To participate in continuous nursing coverage on wards/units 

(b) To keep patients comfortable and ensure a healthy environment. 

(c) To give out treatment as prescribed and carry out nursing 

procedures. 

(d) To carry out observations, keep proper records and ensure their 

safe custody. 

(e) To participate in doctors/clinical officers’ ward rounds. 

(f) To receive patients, register admissions and discharges. 

(g) To prepare patients for meals and participate in serving them. 

(h) To ensure that aseptic technique is adhered to in the preparation 

of sterile procedures. 

(i) To maintain personal contact with patients, take note of their 

complaints, report if necessary 

(j) To ensure adherence to ethical professional conduct. 

(k) To carry out Health Education to patients and their attendants 

(l) To participate in Primary Health Care activities 

(m) To implement infection control guidelines 



(a) Enrolled nurse available at designated times to do ward rounds 

(b) Good reception of patients 

(c) Meals available to patients 

(d) No instances of infections that result from poor handling of 

instruments 

(e) Zero tolerance for unethical conduct has been set; nurses 



(f) Reduction in patient complaints, and speedy resolution of 

problems highlighted by patients 

(g) Reasonable reduction in infections due to implementation of 


(h) Reduction in disease recurrences among patients and their 

attendants that receive health education from enrolled nurse 



(i) Must have Enrolled / Comprehensive Nursing Certificate from a 

recognized institution. 

(ii) Must be registered with the Uganda Nurses and Midwives 

Council 


i) Behavioural Competencies 

Communicating effectively 

Able to verbally communicate ideas to individuals and small 

groups in a manner that fosters understanding and discussion. 

Listens in order to understand and responds to things that appear 

important to others. 

Is receptive and pays attention to the emotion in body language, 

facial expression and tone of voice. 

Shows respect by giving attention to the speaker and uses a 

respective tone when speaking to others. 


Follows the rules of grammar, correct spelling, verb tenses and 

sentence structure 

Public relation and customer care 

Takes care to avoid behaviour that may portray a negative image 

of the organization. 

Follows up customer inquiries, requests and complaints and keeps 

customer updated about progress. 

Ensures courteous and professional service 

Provides helpful information to clients 

Time management 

Maintains written short and long-term goals and related work 

activity plans. Plans daily, weekly and monthly activities designed 

to achieve yearly and multiyear goals 

When assigned work, manages expectations appropriately. 

Communicates current work activities/responsibilities and the 

impact of the new assignment on their ability to achieve the 

desired results. Adjusts work activities as required to address 

changes in objectives. 

Maintains an organised+ work environment with easy access to 

necessary resources and files and with minimal clutter 

Uses an effective personal planning and scheduling tool, either 

computerised or print-based 

Maintains an organised filing system 

Takes specific steps to evaluate how time is used and to eliminate 

time wastage 

ii) Technical Competencies 


Collects, creates and receives records 

Arranges information according to classification scheme 

Identifies, retrieves, circulates and monitors records 

Provides access to records/information 

Respects and maintains the nature of records and information 

entrusted to him/her 


Recognises and understands the differences between various 

types of records and the way they are created 

Ensures the security of records entrusted to him/her 

Understands the use of black and red minutes 

Understands the colour coding of official files 

Is able to use the transit ladder on the files for communication 

purposes 

Understands the role of registries 

5.13 Enrolled Midwife 

Job Title: 

Enrolled Midwife 

Salary Scale: 

U7 

Reports to : 


Directly Supervises: Support staff 

Interacts with: Assistant Nursing Officers, Nursing 

Assistants 


To carry out day to day activities of midwifery care 

Key duties and responsibilities 

(a) To receive, register and admit expectant mothers 

(b) To assess expectant mothers and identify high risk cases for 

referral 

(c) To carry out antenatal care and carries out health education 

(d) To implements infection control guidelines 

(e) To participates in ward rounds 

(f) To provides care during labor and pueperium period 

(g) To carry out immediate care of the new born baby 

(h) To manage records 

(i) To observer and enforce ethical conduct 

(j) To impart knowledge and skills to students 



(a) Accurate diagnosis of expectant mothers’ conditions 

(b) Correct and timely decisions taken in response to conditions of 

expectant mothers 

(c) Increase in numbers of women attending Antenatal care services 

(d) Reasonable reduction in infections due to implementation of 


(e) Enrolled Midwife available at designated times to do ward rounds 

– fewer instances of absenteeism 

(f) Good quality of care received by mothers in labour 

(g) Reasonable reduction in shock, infections, and death of new born 

babies as a result of profession care provided immediately after 

babies’ births 

(h) Zero tolerance tone for unethical conduct has been set; nurses 



(i) Correct execution of medical procedures by students 



(i) Enrolled Midwifery Certificate from a recognized institution 


Council 



Firm, relaxed in his/her actions. 

Willing to take on new and challenging assignments 

Defends his/her stand clearly when challenged while at the 

same time admitting mistakes 



groups in a manner that fosters understanding and 

discussion. 


Listens in order to understand and responds to things that 

appear important to others. 

Is receptive and pays attention to the emotion in body 

language, facial expression and tone of voice. 



Follows the rules of grammar, correct spelling, verb tenses 

and sentence structure 


Is willing to be assessed against personal/professional codes 

of conduct 

Takes pride in being a person of integrity 

Voluntarily modifies behaviour in order to hold to ethical 

standards 

Is not persuaded to change standards even if others do not 

adhere to them 

Observes the cardinal principles and code of conduct of the 

Public Service 


Takes care to avoid behaviour that may portray a negative 

image of the organization. 

Follows up customer inquiries, requests and complaints and 

keeps customer updated about progress. 




Resists impulses to do inappropriate things 

Technical Competencies 


Willingly gives one’s time and shares relevant information 

Is open to new ideas and alternatives 







Respects and maintains the nature of records and 

information entrusted to him/her 






Is able to use the transit ladder on the files for 

communication purposes 


5.14 Enrolled Nurse 

Job Title: 

Salary Scale: 

Reports to : 



Enrolled Psychiatric Nurse 

U7 

Assistant Nursing Officers 

Support Staff 

Assistant Nursing Officers 

Purpose of the job 

To carry out day to day activities of nursing care 

Key duties and responsibilities 

(a) To receive patients, register admissions, death, and discharges. 

(b) To provide quality nursing care. 

(c) To participate in ward rounds 

(d) To manage records and ensure their safe custody. 

(e) To keep patients comfortable, allay their anxieties and ensure a 

healthy psychiatric environment. 


(f) To ensure maximum protection of patients, relatives, and staff. 

(g) To provide health education and counselling to patients and 

relatives. 

(h) To manage and account for allocated resources. 

(i) To impart knowledge and skills to students 

(j) To compile and submit daily ward reports. 


(a) Good reception of clients. 

(b) Patients admitted in a timely, professional manner and are 

discharged at the right time, in an acceptable manner. 

(c) High response rates by patients to treatments provided by 

Enrolled Psychiatric Nurse. 

(d) Enrolled Psychiatric Nurse available at designated times to do 

ward rounds – fewer instances of absenteeism. 

(e) Patients comfortable and satisfied due to care provided by 

Enrolled Psychiatric Nurse. 

(f) Secure environment for patients, relatives and staff as a result of 

the Enrolled Psychiatric Nurse participation in the patient 

protection programmes. 

(g) Relatives and patients knowledgeable about psychiatric 

conditions/ailments and are adequately prepared after receiving 

counselling services. 

(h) Accurate timely ward reports have influenced decisions made in 

the psychiatric unit. 

(i) Communities are able to respond to psychiatric conditions after 

they have been exposed to psychiatric community outreach 

activities. 

(j) No instances of irregularities in the utilization of resources. 

(k) Correct execution of medical procedures by psychiatry students. 


(i) Comprehensive Nursing Certificate from a recognized 

institution 


Council 



(j) Behavioural Competencies 


Firm, relaxed in his/her actions. 

Willing to take on new and challenging assignments 

Defends his/her stand clearly when challenged while at the 

same time admitting mistakes 



groups in a manner that fosters understanding and discussion. 

Listens in order to understand and responds to things that 

appear important to others. 

Is receptive and pays attention to the emotion in body 

language, facial expression and tone of voice. 



Follows the rules of grammar, correct spelling, verb tenses and 

sentence structure 


Is willing to be assessed against personal/professional codes of 

conduct 

Takes pride in being a person of integrity 

Voluntarily modifies behaviour in order to hold to ethical 

standards 

Is not persuaded to change standards even if others do not 

adhere to them 

Observes the cardinal principles and code of conduct of the 

Public Service 


Takes care to avoid behaviour that may portray a negative 

image of the organization. 


Follows up customer inquiries, requests and complaints and 

keeps customer updated about progress. 




Resists impulses to do inappropriate things 



Willingly gives one’s time and shares relevant information 

Is open to new ideas and alternatives 






Respects and maintains the nature of records and information 

entrusted to him/her 






Is able to use the transit ladder on the files for communication 

purposes 


End

SCHEMES OF SERVICE FOR THE NURSING CADRE

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