Determining the knowledge and experience of the performance management and development system amongst nurses at the district hospital in Tshwane

Abstract

The Performance Management and Development System was introduced by the South African government as a tool for monitoring and managing public sector performance, including healthcare. In order to implement it correctly, implementers must possess the necessary skills and knowledge. Studies have shown that nurses in several public health clinics lack knowledge and experience of the Performance Management and Development System. However, there have been little or no research studies found at district hospitals. Therefore, this study focuses on determining the knowledge and experience of the Performance Management and Development System amongst registered nurses at a district hospital in Tshwane.

The research was carried out in a natural setting, namely the health institution where Performance Management and Development System activities were taking place. The study employed a quantitative and descriptive design and data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using the Statistical software for data science. The study found that participants had limited knowledge with regard to training and the processes of the system, and their experiences revealed that supervisor feedback was inadequate and nurses felt demotivated by the system. Drawn from the findings, the study recommends that convenience-based educational strategies should be implemented to enhance nurses' knowledge of Performance Management and Development System training and processes. Furthermore, feedback should be provided promptly to allow changes to be implemented in a timely manner. Different motivational theories can be explored and used to motivate the employees at the district hospital. On the basis of the study's findings, recommendations have been made to improve the knowledge of the Performance Management and Development System through convenient training of the system and its process. Additionally, increased supervisor feedback and workplace motivation were recommended to improve nurses' experiences with the system.