Innovative Competency of Nursing Attendants: Evidence from the Philippines

Abstract

Nursing attendants play a vital role in healthcare, yet their competencies in knowledge, skills, attitude, training, and digital literacy require continuous assessment and improvement. This study evaluated their competencies and identified challenges to propose an innovative competency framework. Using a quantitative descriptive research design, data were collected from 131 nursing attendants in nine government hospitals in Sorsogon Province through a self-assessment tool. Respondents had at least two years of experience, were actively employed, and voluntarily participated. The questionnaire was adapted from established competency standards and validated by a chief nurse from another province. Findings revealed that most nursing attendants were young to mid-career professionals, predominantly female, with a college education. While many engaged in training, access to professional development varied. Self- assessments indicated strong competencies in clinical knowledge, practical skills, and attitude, with attitude scoring the highest. However, training received lower scores, indicating a need for more learning opportunities, while digital and technological competence ranked the lowest. Strengths included effective patient monitoring, timely care delivery, and teamwork, contributing to patient safety and positive healthcare outcomes. Challenges included inadequate compensation, difficulty using modern equipment, and educational gaps. The study recommends targeted training programs, enhanced digital literacy, and hands-on experience with advanced technology. It also proposes adopting the developed competency framework to guide policy improvements and ensure high-quality patient care.