Competency is defined as the quality of being functionally proficient in performing the tasks and assuming the role of a specified position with the requisite knowledge, ability, capability, skill, judgment, attitudes and values. A Competency Profile is a detailed and specific description of the behaviors inherent in the role, trade or profession. There are three major reasons to develop a Continuing Competency Program for registered psychiatric and mental deficiency nurses. First, every profession is responsible to serve the public. The Registered Psychiatric Nurses Association, in its regulatory capacity, has a mandate to protect the public good, specifically, through ensuring the competency of nurses in the provision of mental health services.
Psychiatric nurses have a long and proud history of providing safe quality care.
Third, the Health Professions Act will require all regulated health professions to have a formal means of assessing and reporting the competence of its members. All health professions will be required to establish a Continuing Competency Program, to set up a Competency Committee and report to the Alberta government. The Registered Psychiatric Nurses Association envisions a Continuing Competency Program that is credible, useful and respected within the health care field. Record, track and manage the competency data on approximately 1,200 registered psychiatric and mental deficiency nurses in Alberta. Due to the interest in other provinces, the Competency Profile for registered psychiatric nurses in Alberta will serve as a common foundation for competencies for psychiatric nurses across Canada, and in particular, the four western provinces.