Learning Objective #1: Discuss the role of non-clinical activities and skills development within a clinical ladder

Learning Objective #2: Describe how to integrate non-clinical skills development training into a hospital based Nursing Continuing Education Department

---

Preparation for advanced leadership roles within a hospital clinical ladder system requires nurses to develop skills beyond clinical expertise. Nurses must also show the ability to share their expertise and to act as role models for their colleagues. Participation in non-clinical activities such as Nursing Grand Rounds, poster and oral presentations, publishing, and developing a professional portfolio are means of demonstrating these skills. But how does a busy bedside nurse gain experience and expertise with these activities? At our facility, the Nursing Practice, Education, and Research Department provides classes on and mentoring for each of these activities. Facilitated by the Continuing Education Coordinator, an individual nurse or groups of nurse can improve existing skills or develop new skills in a supportive environment. This presentation will describe these educational initiatives, how they are delivered, staff response and outcomes. In addition the relationship between these classes and the clinical ladder advancement will be discussed.