Assessing, developing, and maintaining staff's competency in times of restructuring

Downsizing and reorganization in hospitals have resulted in nursing staff being realigned to different areas. During these times, nurse educators are continually challenged to provide effective educational programs to develop and upgrade staff competency. Nurse educators at a government health care facility in New York City experienced similar challenges as inpatient units were closed and staff had to develop or upgrade their skills. Two educational programs were designed to prepare staff to assume other duties, and competency assessments were developed and used to measure the effectiveness of the programs. Concepts relevant to competency assessment, development, and maintenance are discussed, and methods of assessments are described. Sample assessment tools and description of outcomes are included.