An Evaluation Index System for Core Competencies of Specialist Nurses in Pediatric Emergency Care

Abstract

Objective: We aimed to construct an evaluation index system for the core competencies of specialist nurses in pediatric emergency care using the Delphi method. Methods: We preliminarily defined 3 levels of evaluation indices for the core competencies in this nursing specialty through literature review and qualitative analysis. We conducted 2 rounds of expert consultation (using the Delphi method) to screen, revise, and finalize the indices. Results: Two rounds of inquiry sufficiently defined the evaluation index system for the core competencies. The evaluation index system consists of 70 tertiary indices, 17 secondary indices, and 6 primary indices. The authority coefficients of the 2 rounds were 0.859 and 0.876, respectively, and the effective response rates of both rounds was 100%. Conclusion: The proposed evaluation index system is reliable, comprehensive, and professional, providing a quantifiable basis for the evaluation and appraisal of the core competencies in this area of nursing specialization.