National Competencies for Registered Nurses in Primary Care: A Delphi Study

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Primary Health Care
• Health Workforce Development

Background:

• Registered nurses (RNs) play a crucial role in primary care.
• A standardized set of competencies is needed to optimize RNs' contribution to primary care.
• Existing competency frameworks may not fully address the evolving needs of primary care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To achieve national consensus on essential competencies for registered nurses (RNs) working in primary care.
• To establish a clear framework for RN roles and responsibilities in primary care settings.
• To support the development and integration of RNs within primary care teams.

Main Methods:

• A Delphi (consensus) process involving primary care nurses was employed.
• Key informants initially drafted competency statements.
• Nurses rated competency importance using a six-point Likert scale in two survey rounds, with consensus defined as ≥80% agreement.

Main Results:

• The Delphi process achieved national agreement on a final list of 47 competencies.
• Competencies were categorized into six domains: professionalism, clinical practice, communication, collaboration and partnership, quality assurance/evaluation/research, and leadership.
• High participant response rates were achieved in both survey rounds (63% and 84%).

Conclusions:

• The established national competencies provide a foundation for strengthening the RN workforce in primary care.
• These competencies are expected to enhance team functioning and support the optimal integration and utilization of RNs.
• This consensus-based framework will guide professional development and practice standards for RNs in primary care.