The Model and the Way: Pairing the Wright Model with Education Extenders

Abstract

<p>Nurse Professional Development (NPD) practitioners at one facility are transforming annual competencies into on-going competency assessment. The Wright Model for Competency Assessment has been around for several years and in the past this facility tried and failed to implement it. By pairing the Wright model with a new unit-based committee of education extenders, NPD practitioners are on the road to success. Hands-on workshops focus on the Wright model, the role of the manager, and the role of the unit-based education extender committee members for competency assessment.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt; Transforming from the traditional approach (checking off skills at a fair using return demonstration and a checklist) meant a change in culture for this facility. With the new way, meaningful and relevant competencies are identified utilizing the Wright Competency Assessment model, Quality Improvement data, and an Education Extenders committee on every unit.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt; The unit-based Education Extenders committee members (which includes the manager) work together to brainstorm, prioritize, and select on-going competencies for their unit. The competency intervals are unit-selected time periods. Once competencies are selected, the facility NPD practitioners work together to determine which validation methods will be offered for employees to bring forth their evidence of competence to the managers.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt; This method will decrease the facility cost for competency assessment by incorporating most competencies into the work day. It will also increase employee satisfaction by collaboratively identifying unit competencies, having employee-centered verification, and having leaders that create a culture of success. Together the model and the way are transforming a culture.</p>