Identification of the core competencies of pediatric hematology-oncology nurses: A Delphi study

Abstract

PurposeTo identify the core competencies of the pediatric hematology-oncology nurse. MethodsA Delphi study was conducted. After identifying the competencies of the pediatric hematology-oncology nurse through a literature review, a questionnaire was created to be administered to a panel of experts to obtain consensus. The panel of experts consisted of 19 nurses. For each competence identified, it was necessary to evaluate the competence in terms of “understanding” and “relevance”, assigning a score from 0 (not at all) to 4 (completely), according to a Likert scale. Then, the experts identified what could be the necessary “level of work experience” within which a nurse should become autonomous in every competency choosing among the levels: beginner, intermediate, expert. Consensus among the experts was reached in two rounds. ResultsAfter submitting the document to two rounds, a final document was obtained with a total of 126 competencies, divided into nine areas. Fifty-eight competencies fall into the “beginner” level, 46 competencies into the “intermediate” level and 22 competencies into the “expert” level. ConclusionsThe document produced by this study could be a starting point for organizing specific training courses for nurses in the pediatric hematology-oncology department. A clear description of specific competencies for pediatric hematology-oncology nurses would help ensure the best care for the child.