Clinical Competency Assessment: The Educator's Role

Competency involves not just knowledge (K) and skills (S), but attitudes (A) and specific behaviors needed to perform a role. In nursing, competency can be complex and challenging to measure. There is an aspect of clinical judgment required to put KSA into action. Assessing an environment and creating a plan of action must be taught and reinforced as best evidence-based practice. Competency assessments should demonstrate mastery of items that impact outcomes. This article addresses the topic of competency from the lens of a clinical educator with a need for information on considerations in staff learning and topical assessment development.