When entry-level nurses graduate from school and enter the profession, they are required to have a foundation of knowledge, skill and judgment. This foundation is based on a set of entry-level competencies that we establish to ensure that nurses are able to provide safe care at any stage in their career.
The entry-level competencies are used primarily to shape nursing education programs by ensuring the program prepare graduates to have the entry-level competencies required. We also verify that nursing education programs are aligned with the competencies through our education approval process.
Each nursing designation (LPN, RN, NP) has entry-level competencies that align with each designation’s distinct education, standards and scope of practice:
Entry-to-Practice Competencies for Licensed Practical Nurses
All LPNs are accountable to possess the entry-level competencies. This means:
- Demonstrating and understanding professional self-regulation
- Collaborating with clients and other members of the health care team
- Maintaining a professional, ethical and legal practice
- Being responsible and accountable for safe, competent and ethical professional nursing practice
- Using critical thinking, inquiry and evidence to inform clinical judgment and decision-making
Open the Entry-to-Practice Competencies for LPNs
Entry-Level Competencies for Registered Nurses
All RNs are accountable to possess the entry-level competencies. This means:
- Being professional, responsible and accountable
- Having a specialized body of knowledge from nursing and other disciplines
- Being competent to provide nursing care
- Maintaining an ethical practice
- Understanding their duty to provide care in the best interest of the public
- Understanding the requirements of self-regulation
Open the Entry-Level Competencies for RNs
Entry-Level Competencies for Nurse Practitioners
All NPs are accountable to possess the entry-level competencies. This means:
- Demonstrating leadership
- Having a commitment to client care
- Integrating formal and informal education into practice
- Using evidence-informed practice, seeking to optimize client care and participating in research