Development of educator competencies and the professional review process

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Professional Development

Background:

• Staff development educators are crucial for preparing healthcare organizations for future challenges.
• Competencies and peer review are established expectations for healthcare staff.
• Educator competencies and professional review are essential for those who train staff.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the importance and application of educator competencies in staff development.
• To describe a refined process for educator competencies and professional review.
• To demonstrate how this approach can benefit individual educators and healthcare organizations.

Main Methods:

• Competencies for educators are based on the American Nurses Association Standards of Practice, National Nursing Staff Development Organization research, and Patricia Benner's work.
• The professional review process incorporates peer input, self-evaluation, and portfolio development.
• A large Midwestern health system's educators have refined this process over two years.

Main Results:

• Educator competencies reflect practice levels from novice to expert, promoting excellence.
• Portfolio development serves as documentation of educator accomplishments.
• The refined process positions educators to meet healthcare demands and demonstrates leadership.

Conclusions:

• Implementing educator competencies and professional review is vital for advancing staff development.
• This structured approach enhances educator practice and organizational preparedness.
• The refined process offers a valuable strategy for current and future healthcare needs.