Clinical competence in nursing: A hybrid concept analysis

Background: Clinical competence (CC) is central issue in nursing. There are some controversies about this concept that needs further investigation. The present study was conducted to analyze the concept of clinical competence in nursing. Methods: This concept analysis was conducted using the three-phase hybrid model. In the theoretical phase, the Science Direct, PubMed, CINAHL, ProQuest, Scopus, Web of Science, SID, Iranmedex, and Magiran databases were searched to retrieve articles published from 2000 to 2020. Forty two eligible articles were included and analyzed. In the fieldwork phase, semi-structured interviews were held with eighteen university lecturers, clinical instructors, students, and hospital nurses and the data were analyzed through conventional content analysis. In the final analytic phase, the findings of the first and the second phases were combined. Results: The majority of literature defined CC in nursing as a combination of knowledge, and skills, and attitudes that is consistent with those of the fieldwork phase. Most participants in fieldwork stated that gaining CC is a process that is achieved over time through practice and repetition and increasing experience. A nurse needs to acquire personal, social and professional competencies during the study and work period. The CC has antecedents of efficient education, and organizational support. It also has consequences for patients and nurses such as satisfaction, and quality care. Conclusion: CC is a continuous process of obtaining knowledge, values, and attitudes, and skills such as critical thinking skills that brings creativity and innovation in nursing practice.

Automated summary

Clinical competence in nursing is defined as a combination of knowledge, skills, and attitudes, achieved through practice and experience. Nurses need to acquire personal, social, and professional competencies during their study and work period, with consequences including patient and nurse satisfaction and quality care.