Purpose:The purpose of this study were to classify and define ’critical care’ and to develop the core competencies of advanced practice nurses.
Method:From an extensive literature review, a draft of a classification system in critical care and the core competencies of advanced nurse was developed. A focus group, consisted of the representatives from related areas in medicine and nursing, was used to draw a consensus on the draft presented.
Result:A final classification system for critical care contained cardio/pulmonary system, gastrointestinal system, neuromuscular system, genitourinary system, endocrine system, oncology/hematology/immunology system, and pediatrics. The core competences for advanced practice nurse contained advanced clinical practice, education and counseling, consulting and collaboration, research, leadership.
Conclusion:Increased complexity of care and clinical decision making need advanced practice nurse to be prepared as a competent professional. Based on the study result, a standard for education, practice and credentialing can be refined.