Five Levels of Competency: Benner's Model of Novice to Expert

Theoretical Framework
Name:
Institution:
Dr Patricia Benner, using the concept of multitude experiences and a sound educational base, developed one of the most influential models in nursing. In this model which named after the expert, Benner’s from novice to expert, it details the various levels of skill development for any nurse within the actual nursing field (Currentnursing.com, 2014). When nurses first practice what they have been learning in class, they do not have much experience in the field and have to be ready to grow and develop their skills. The model stipulates that there are five stages that the nurses go through before achieving the highest levels of competence.
The five levels of developing competence according to the Benner’s model include novice, advanced beginner, competent, proficient and lastly the expert level. In the novice stage of development, the nurses have not had experience and thus are supposed to follow certain rules as a guide (Currentnursing.com, 2014). As such due to the lack of freedom to make choices, the novice has to ask for help. The second stage referred to as advanced beginner, applies to the nurses that have had quite a number of real life experiences. At this stage the nurse can be in a position to define some patterns that show up in the practice, but still require guidelines on how to prioritize. The competent nurse stage means that the candidate has been in the field for a period of about 2-3 years, within the same area, interacting with similar scenarios from day to day. Having worked for more than 2 years I am a competent nurse. At this stage I can establish long-term goals. Nurses at this stage can plan for their actions, based on analytical thinking skills whether conscious or abstract and can achieve greater efficiency. At the proficient stage...