title: A Delphi approach to developing a core competency framework for family practice registered nurses in Ontario.
abstract: This paper describes the results of a Delphi panel process to gain consensus on a role description and competency framework for family practice registered nurses (FP-RNs) in Ontario. Based on the findings from interviews and focus groups with family practice registered nurses and their inter-professional colleagues throughout Ontario, a core competency framework for FP-RNs emerged consisting of six distinct roles - Professional, Expert, Communicator, Synergist, Health Educator and Lifelong Learner - with accompanying enabling competency statements. This framework was refined and validated by a panel of experts from various nursing and family medicine associations and organizations through a Delphi consensus process. This core competency framework for FP-RNs was developed as a stepping stone for clarifying this very important and poorly understood role in family practice. As a result of this research, we expect a greater acknowledgement of the contributions and expertise of the FP-RN as well as the need to celebrate and profile this role. This work has already led to the establishment of a network of stakeholders from nursing organizations in Ontario who are considering opportunities to move the development and use of the competency framework forward.
authors.affiliation: Family Health Team, Toronto Western Hospital, Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON. a.moaveni@utoronto.ca
authors.forename: Azadeh
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Moaveni
authors.forename: Anna
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Gallinaro
authors.forename: Lesley Gotlib
authors.initials: LG
authors.lastname: Conn
authors.forename: Sheilagh
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Callahan
authors.forename: Melanie
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Hammond
authors.forename: Ivy
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Oandasan
mesh_terms: D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards*; D003697:Delphi Technique; D005194:Family Practice / Q000592:standards*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009864:Ontario; D059017:Primary Care Nursing / Q000592:standards*; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D036301:Qualitative Research