Competencies of Newly Hired Nurses in the Emergency Room: Basis for Training Program

This study aimed to assess the competencies of newly hired nurses assigned to the Emergency Room (ER) and utilize the findings as the basis for developing a competency-based training program. Specifically, it determined the respondents' demographic profile, assessed their competency levels across eleven nursing domains, identified the competency domains requiring priority for enhancement, examined differences in competencies based on selected demographic characteristics, and proposed an evidence-based training program. The study employed a descriptive quantitative research design and utilized total population sampling involving newly hired ER nurses from two selected public hospitals in Antipolo City. Data were gathered using an adopted competency assessment instrument and analyzed through appropriate descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. The findings revealed that the respondents generally demonstrated satisfactory competency across the identified domains. However, several competency domains obtained relatively lower mean scores, indicating priority areas for competency enhancement. Significant differences in competency levels were also observed based on selected demographic characteristics. The study was limited to newly hired ER nurses from two public hospitals and focused on competency assessment and the development of a proposed training program without evaluating its implementation. The findings provide valuable guidance for hospital administrators, nurse educators, and clinical supervisors in strengthening orientation and professional development programs. The study contributes to emergency nursing practice by providing an evidence-based foundation for designing competency-based training initiatives that enhance professional growth, patient safety, and the quality of emergency healthcare services.