Development and Validation of a Competency Framework for Pediatric Nurse Practitioners.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nursing
• Healthcare Professional Development
• Competency Assessment

Background:

• A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Competency Framework was developed to define career progression in PNP competence.
• This framework aims to inform professional development and recertification processes for PNPs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a comprehensive Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Competency Framework.
• To describe the progression of PNP competence across a career lifespan.

Main Methods:

• A task force of expert PNPs developed the initial framework.
• Focus groups refined the framework, followed by national survey validation (February-March 2023).
• Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze survey responses.

Main Results:

• The survey response rate was 7.4%, with demographics aligning with the PNCB report.
• Over 95% of respondents confirmed the framework accurately reflects the PNP role.
• The framework highlights progression within seven core competency domains.

Conclusions:

• The validated framework details competency progression across Clinician, Collaborator, Advocate, Educator, Scholar, Leader, and Innovator domains.
• This framework has significant implications for individual PNPs, employers, and certification bodies.
• It serves as a vital tool for competence reflection, career planning, and ensuring workforce sustainability.