Why you should read this article:

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To understand the important aspects of competency frameworks for nurses

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To learn about a project to develop and evaluate a gerontological competency framework for early career nurses

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To recognise the potential benefits of competency frameworks in supporting post-registration nurse education

Background Within gerontological nursing as a postgraduate nursing specialty, there is a lack of consensus regarding the standardised competencies and education development required, particularly in the UK.

Aim To develop and evaluate a competency framework for early career nurses undertaking post-registration education in a UK university in care for older people living with frailty.

Method The competency framework was developed as part of a broader gerontological education-career pathway intervention to improve competence and retention among early career nurses. A four-step process was used to develop the framework guided by a consensus building approach. A mixed-methods approach to the evaluation was adopted, with an online survey, one-to-one interviews and focus group interviews with students and organisational stakeholders.

Findings A total of 33 students completed the competency framework as part of an academic module, 30 of whom took part in the evaluation. There was consensus among interviewees that the competencies confirmed ‘what they knew already’ and identified areas they needed to develop. Survey respondents reported that the competency framework was a useful part of the education-career pathway.

Conclusion The competency framework was acceptable to students and feasible to complete. It also enabled students to appreciate the unique knowledge and skills that underpin gerontological nursing and to evidence their expertise using a structured approach.