An Evaluation Index System to Assess Nurse Competency in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Programs: A Delphi Study

Summary: Purpose: To construct an index system to evaluate the competencies of nurses in enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs and provide a scientific foundation for their training and assessment. Methods: Utilizing a literature review and semi-structured interviews, a preliminary indicator system was constructed. Based on the preliminary indicator system, a Delphi questionnaire was developed and utilized to achieve consensus among experts in two rounds of Delphi studies. The indicators were selected based on a mean importance score greater than 4 and a coefficient of variation less than .25. The weights of the indicators were calculated using the Analytic Hierarchy Process. Results: The study developed a system that evaluates the competencies of nurses involved in ERAS programs, offering a reference for their training and evaluation. The final index system includes 7 primary indicators, 20 secondary indicators, and 66 tertiary indicators. The primary indicators consist of competencies in the following components: 1) Direct clinical practice (20 items); 2) Expert coaching and guidance (9 items); 3) Consultation (6 items); 4) Research (7 items); 5) Leadership (11 items); 6) Collaboration (8 items); and 7) Ethical decision-making (5 items). Conclusion: The developed competency evaluation index system is reliable and can serve as a foundation for the selection, training, and assessment of ERAS nurses.