Role development: the nursing quality assurance coordinator

This application of the Benner Model to the role experiences of the NQA coordinator demonstrates the usefulness of this framework to describe the progressive development of the role. In Benner's model, there are three distinct areas for discussion. First, as the nurse moves from the expert role of staff nurse or head nurse to the role of novice NQA coordinator, many very real situations are encountered that have the potential to create frustrations and adverse feelings within the nurse. It is equally important for the position holder, as well as the supervisor, to recognize these as the normal growth stage of the novice, so that appropriate actions can be taken to positively help the NQA coordinator through these early developmental stages. Secondly, initial acceptance of the NQA coordinator role creates feelings of anticipation, challenge, and excitement. However, in spite of this, the novice is soon likely to feel threatened and alone. This feeling is related to various situations, such as the lack of formal guidance and role preparation. As a result, the novice NQA coordinator often needs to accept the responsibility for self-direction in role preparation. At this point, it may be quite overwhelming for the NQA coordinator to take personal responsibility for obtaining the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the role. To be successful, it is vital for the novice and advanced beginner to identify developmental needs and to obtain the resources and support needed during these crucial stages. Finally, the personal reflection on the experiences of two NQA coordinators demonstrates that, although the developmental stages are relatively well defined, they may not always be clear-cut, and there may be vacillation between stages. These are normal phenomena for which strategies can be identified to enhance adaptation and growth within the particular stages of skill acquisition. The proposed time frames noted for each stage of role development may be somewhat arbitrary. Many variables, such as degree of specialization, urgency of the task, and characteristics of the position holder, organization, and health care environment will influence role development. Thus, the individual may not experience a straightforward and clear-cut progression but rather a back-and-forth movement through the various stages. The role experiences of the NQA coordinator are easily conceptualized using the Benner framework.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)