Perceptions of competency in advanced clinical practice.

Background: Historically, there has been limited research carried out on the competency of individuals undertaking advanced clinical roles.

Aims: To research advanced clinical practitioner (ACP) perceptions of the term competency, and how they evidence their competency in practice.

Methods: A cross-sectional, qualitative study used semi-structured interviews, which were analysed by content analysis. Six participants were recruited to the study.

Findings: There is disparity in the definitions of 'trainee' and 'qualified' ACP in clinical practice as well as disparity and ambiguity regarding being able to work in a supernumerary capacity during training and master's level study. There is a lack of agreement over the benchmark for qualified ACP status and the road to getting there.

Conclusion: ACPs should be employed in a supernumerary capacity while training and work towards a full MSc in advanced clinical practice. They should maintain a portfolio of their competency. Work must also be carried out nationally to identify both generic and specialist curricula for ACPs to benchmark against.