Keywords
Nursing Competence
Professional Development
Quality of Care
Self-Assessment
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction. Nursing competence—encompassing knowledge, skills, and experience—is key to delivering safe, high-quality care. Self-assessment supports professional growth, enhances satisfaction, and may lower turnover. This study aimed to assess nurses’ self-declared competencies across four domains (management, nursing care, leadership, and ethics) using the validated Italian Nurse Professional Competence Scale–Short Form (I-NPCS-SF).
Methods. A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted on 161 nurses from two hospitals in Northern Italy (Oct–Dec 2024). Data were analyzed with ANOVA using Jamovi.
Results. Higher scores were found in all areas. Postgraduate education and 6–10 years’ experience correlated with better scores.
Discussion. Assessing nursing competencies is essential to maintain care quality and guide professional development. Promoting regular self-assessment helps identify areas for growth, supports career progression, and contributes to nurse retention.
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