Portfolio evaluation for professional competence: credentialing in genetics for nurses

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Genetics
• Professional Credentialing

Background:

• Traditional assessments like tests and observations offer limited, point-in-time evaluations of clinical competence.
• Professional portfolios are emerging as a popular method to showcase a broader scope of a clinician's practice and expertise.
• Validating the accuracy and reliability of portfolio evaluations presents unique challenges compared to psychometric validation of examinations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the process of creating and validating professional portfolio evaluations.
• To establish a quality credential for nurses in genetics.
• To address the complexities of ensuring reliable and accurate portfolio assessment.

Main Methods:

• The Credentialing Committee of the International Society of Nurses in Genetics developed a framework for portfolio evaluation.
• The committee focused on validating the accuracy and reliability of these portfolio assessments.
• Experiences and processes of the committee were documented and analyzed.

Main Results:

• The development and validation process for professional portfolios were established.
• A method for quality credentialing in nursing genetics using portfolios was created.
• The study provides insights into the practical application of portfolio assessment in a specialized nursing field.

Conclusions:

• Professional portfolios provide a robust method for evaluating clinician competence.
• The International Society of Nurses in Genetics successfully developed a validated portfolio evaluation process.
• This approach enhances the quality and reliability of credentials for nurses in genetics.