Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

What is the essential cluster of abilities and skills required for competent nursing practice called?

1. Educational skills

2. Performance skills

3. Routine competencies

4. Core competencies

The correct answer is: Core competencies

The essential cluster of abilities and skills required for competent nursing practice is referred to as "core competencies." Core competencies encompass the foundational knowledge, skills, attitudes, and abilities that are necessary for effective nursing care. These competencies ensure that nurses can deliver safe, high-quality care across various situations and patient populations. Core competencies are designed to be integrated into practice, with a focus on critical thinking, clinical judgment, and ethical decision-making, all of which are fundamental to nursing. In contrast, while "educational skills" and "performance skills" may describe certain aspects of nursing, they do not capture the comprehensive range of skills and abilities that constitute overall competent nursing practice. Similarly, "routine competencies" suggests a narrow scope of familiarity with standard procedures, lacking the broader framework offered by core competencies that include adaptability and the application of evidence-based practices.