A Competency-Based Orientation (CBO) Protocol Enhances Competency Among Newly Hired Perianesthesia Nurses

J Perianesth Nurs. 2021 Oct;36(5):445-451. doi: 10.1016/j.jopan.2020.09.017. Epub 2021 Jul 10.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to develop a competency-based orientation (CBO) protocol based on the American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses Nursing Standards and CBO for perianesthesia nurses.

Design: Feasibility study with pre-post survey design.

Methods: A CBO protocol that included nursing care workflows for 11 common surgical cases was developed and used in orienting newly hired perianesthesia nurses. Newly hired nurses completed a pre-post self-assessment on their level of competency in caring for surgical patients.

Findings: Using Wilcoxon signed rank test, improved competency was found in all service areas except for pediatric care.

Conclusions: Nursing competency in the perianesthesia area is critical in fulfilling one's role as a nurse. A robust CBO protocol for the perianesthesia nurse is important when integrating an employee into the organization and preparing the nurse for success.

Keywords: competency; nursing competency; nursing orientation; perianesthesia nurse.

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Clinical Competence
  • Humans
  • Nurses*
  • Perioperative Nursing*