AACN releases new nursing education competencies

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) adopted a new framework this month for preparing RNs, advanced practice nurses and nurse specialists. The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education delineates competency expectations for graduates of baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs and aims to transform how nurses are educated. Throughout the development of The Essentials, the AACN engaged a variety of practice leaders to ensure nursing education remains in sync with the current and future needs of health care systems. (AACN news release, 4/7/21)