CLINICAL SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE OF NURSES OF CITY OF ILAGAN MEDICAL CENTER: BASIS FOR TRAINING PROGRAM

This study aims to assess the clinical skills and knowledge levels of nurses at the City of Ilagan Medical Center and identify the basis for a targeted training program. Clinical competency is essential in ensuring high-quality patient care, and understanding the current competency levels of nurses is crucial for addressing gaps in clinical practice. A descriptive-correlational design was employed, utilizing a competency assessment tool to evaluate nurses' proficiency across various clinical areas. The demographic profile, including age, sex, civil status, and educational attainment, was also considered to determine any influencing factors on competency levels. Results revealed that the majority of nurses were categorized as proficient and competent, with fewer nurses at the expert level. Significant differences were observed based on age, educational attainment, and civil status, suggesting the need for tailored training programs. Nurses with higher educational attainment, particularly those with Master’s units, demonstrated greater clinical competency. In contrast, younger nurses showed a greater presence in the competent and proficient categories, indicating the importance of ongoing professional development. Based on these findings, it is recommended that the medical center implement a continuous training program that focuses on enhancing clinical skills, especially for younger and less experienced nurses, while also offering advanced development opportunities for more senior staff.