The National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) has determined nine broad areas of core competence that apply to all nurse practitioners, regardless of specialty or patient population focus. NONPF created the first set of Nurse Practitioner Competencies in 1990; the most recent updates were incorporated in 2017. This course was designed to prepare you to synthesize knowledge gained throughout the program and to apply each of the nine core competencies within your selected areas of practice and your representative communities.
The nine areas of competency are:
Scientific Foundations
Leadership
Quality
Practice Inquiry
Technology and Information Literacy
Policy
Health Delivery System
Ethics
Independent Practice
For each of the nine NONPF competencies, write one paragraph explaining how the program has prepared you to meet the competency (for a total of at least nine paragraphs). Then, propose how you plan to engage in social change in your community as a nurse practitioner. Finally, describe 1–2 legislative and/or advocacy activities in which your state nurse practitioner organization(s) are involved. Be specific and provide examples.
Sample Answer
The National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) has established a framework of nine core competencies to guide the education and practice of all nurse practitioners. My program has provided a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to prepare me to meet each of these competencies. By synthesizing the knowledge and skills from my coursework and clinical experiences, I am confident in my ability to apply these competencies effectively within my future practice and community.
Scientific Foundations
My program has provided a strong scientific foundation through advanced coursework in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and physical assessment. I have learned to synthesize complex information from various scientific disciplines, translating advanced theory into practical application. Through a deep understanding of disease processes at the cellular and systemic levels, and the mechanisms of drug action, I have been prepared to critically evaluate patient data and make evidence-based decisions. This foundational knowledge serves as the bedrock for all clinical judgments, ensuring that my practice is grounded in the most current and robust scientific evidence available.