Institute of Medicine core competencies as a foundation for nursing program evaluation

The purpose of this case study was to explore one institution's experience integrating the Institute of Medicine (IOM) competencies into a pre-licensure baccalaureate nursing curriculum.

In response to a growing number of errors in the health care system and efforts to increase patient safety and quality of care, the IOM proposed that students in health care professions learn to implement five core competencies.

The program evaluation encompassed a mixed-method, stakeholder-focused methodology using a curriculum matrix triangulated with Student and Faculty Core Competency surveys.

Results of the study indicate that all competencies were evident in the curriculum. Students often cited barriers to implementation of the competencies while faculty cited opportunities.

Findings suggest that faculty need to raise student awareness of performing the competencies and be deliberate in the design of experiences to facilitate competency implementation.