Competence Framework and Toolkit for Progressive and Critical Care

Many orientations are task-oriented but do not assess a nurse’s ability to apply what they learn at the bedside.

• AACN’s model goes beyond a checklist to evaluate clinical judgment skills. After an extensive literature review and consultation with experts, AACN applied its Synergy Model for Patient Care to fully assess a nurse’s ability to respond effectively to a spectrum of patient needs.
• Through a scoring system for POs, your team can measurably evaluate and address specific behaviors that orientees should develop, such as the ability to recognize changes in patient stability and to advocate on behalf of the patient.
• In addition, preceptors can use this framework to set expectations and provide constructive feedback.

This approach is flexible to meet various clinical situations:

• POs are listed with suggestions on when during orientation (early, middle or final phases) they should be completed, but they also may be addressed in a different order and prioritized as either required or optional.
• The suggested KSA lists are shorter than many traditional lists. This approach decreases the cognitive load on orientees and focuses on what is essential during this early phase.
• KSAs can be customized to align with the primary patient population. Less frequently occurring KSAs may be completed after orientation.

Purchase the nurse competency toolkit starting at $275, including one year of digital access for up to three competency access managers working with up to five orientees.

For additional orientees, AACN offers tiered pricing as shown below. These volume discounts are available on a per-transaction basis.

If you require more than three competency access managers, additional manager seats may be purchased for $100 each.