Developing clinical nurse specialist practice competencies.

BACKGROUND In 1998, the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialist (NACNS) developed the first ever core competencies for clinical nurse specialist (CNS) practice. PURPOSE This article describes the method used to develop, validate, and revise CNS core practice competencies. METHODS The stepwise method of identifying core CNS competencies included content analysis of CNS position/job descriptions, extensive literature review, development by role experts, first-tier corroboration, second-tier corroboration encompassing stakeholder review, final review/editing, approval by the board of directors, and dissemination. DISCUSSION The process used by professional organizations to develop competencies and standards varies; however, it should be transparent and consist of adequate review and validation for accuracy and applicability by members of the representative group for whom the standards and competencies apply. CONCLUSIONS The stepwise method used by the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialist generated valid CNS core competencies and may be instructive to professional organizations interested in developing competencies and standards.