Continued Competence In Nursing

According to Weis/Tappen (2010) competency is defined as “the demonstrated ability to carry out specific tasks or activities with reasonable skill and safety that adheres to the prevailing standard of practice in the nursing community” (p. 262). To be competent a person should be able to perform a set skill at an expected level. Pertaining to nursing, competence is shown by skill provided in healthcare with safety and understanding of how it is to be performed. The nurse is responsible for continuing competency throughout his/her career in order to meet the performance level set by the healthcare facility they are employed by.

The Exam that Validates “Entry-Level Nursing Competence” The National Council Licensure Examination, also known as the NCLEX, is an exam that each state uses to determine whether a candidate is ready for entry- level nursing practice. Before sitting for this exam you must successfully complete an accredited nursing degree program. After completion one is then able to sit for boards. After passing the NCLEX one is then able to practice in healthcare at their approved level of skill and degree level.

As a nurse we are responsible for the safety and overall health promotion of our patients. Competency in the nursing field is what ensures patient safety and decreased hospital acquired injury. Continued competence ensures that the nurse is able to perform efficiently and safely in a constantly changing environment. Nurses must continuously evaluate their level of skill and find where improvement needs to be made in order to keep up to date with the expected skill level set by their