Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To develop a scientific and systematic core competency evaluation index system for informatics nurses in China. The goal is to support their training, assessment and performance evaluation. METHODS: An initial set of evaluation indicators was created based on a review of existing literature and semi-structured interviews. From September to December 2023, the indicators were refined through two rounds of Delphi expert consultation. A total of 21 experts from 11 provinces in China completed the questionnaires. RESULTS: The response rate for both rounds of questionnaire surveys was 100.0%. The expert authority coefficient was 0.934. The coordination coefficient among experts was statistically significant (p<0.05). After analysing expert feedback, the final index system included six first-, 17 second- and 69 third-level indicators. Each indicator was assigned a weight. The six first-level indicators and their weights were as follows: theoretical and practical skills (0.303), communication and coordination skills (0.152), professional development capabilities (0.210), critical thinking (0.050), nursing management skills (0.210) and occupational humanistic characteristics (0.075). CONCLUSIONS: This core competency evaluation index system provides a foundation for the training and assessment of informatics nurses in China. It can help develop skilled informatics nurses who improve care processes, enhance efficiency and support better patient outcomes.