Development of an International Competency Framework for Nurses in the Provision of Self-management Support to Cancer Populations

Background 

Cancer survivors are required to manage their health, healthcare, and a myriad of symptoms through self-management. 

Objective 

The aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive framework of competencies and performance criteria that identifies the requisite knowledge and skills for nursing practice in the provision of self-management support for cancer survivors and their families. 

Methods 

The competency framework was developed using the following 3-stage consensus building approach: (1) development of a preliminary list of self-management support competencies and performance criteria informed by relevant literature, (2) a 2-round modified Delphi conducted with a panel of cancer nurse experts, and (3) a research team consensus meeting to finalize framework components. 

Results 

Seventy-one items, comprising 13 core competencies and 58 performance criteria, across 6 domains were generated. In round 1 of the modified Delphi, a panel of 21 oncology nurses produced consensus on retaining 28 items for inclusion in the final framework. Thirty-one items (including new items generated in round 1) were sent to round 2 for further rating. A panel of 19 nurses produced consensus on retaining a further 20 items in the framework in round 2. Of the 11 items that did not reach consensus, the research team proposed to include 7 in the final framework. Fifty-nine items were included in the final framework. 

Conclusions 

This study provides a comprehensive, self-management support competency framework for oncology nurses. 

Implications for Practice 

This framework is the first step toward the development of training program curricula that prepares nurses in self-management for cancer and associated coaching knowledge and skills.