Assessing Nurses’ Professional Competency in a Tertiary Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study in Palestine

Abstract

Background: Within the dynamic realm of healthcare, evaluating nurse professional competence is critical for ensuring high-quality patient care and advocating for continuous improvement in nursing education and practice. This study aims to evaluate the professional competence of nurses in a West Bank tertiary hospital using the Nurse Professional Competence (NPC) Scale and to identify associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional design was used, and206 nurses participated in the study. The NPC scale, consisting of eight competency domains and 88 items, was utilized for self-reported competence assessment. Demographic and work-related data were collected and analyzed for correlations. Results: The mean professional competence level was 79%, with variations across competency domains. A positive association was found between the number of workshops and competence levels in multiple domains. However, no significant differences were observed based on demographic and work environmental environment factors. Conclusion: This study contributes valuable insights into the multifaceted dynamics influencing nursing competence. Thisstudyhighlights the significance of ongoing education, targeted training, and support systems to ensure nurses' continuous professional development and the delivery of optimal patient care. Implications: This research informs curriculum enhancements in nursing education and proposes strategies to increase the quality of patient care.