Developing a competency framework for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation nurses: A qualitative study.

Aim: To develop a competency framework applicable to Chinese extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) nurses.

Design: A qualitative study was performed following the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews based on the critical incident technique were conducted among 21 ECMO care providers recruited from five well-known ECMO centres in Guangzhou, China. Interview transcripts were coded and analysed using the constant comparative method. The data collection period lasted from November 2021 to April 2022.

Results: A competency framework for ECMO nurses was identified. It included four domains: knowledge, skills, behaviours and attitudes, containing 33 subcompetencies and 66 items.

Relevance To Clinical Practice: This framework can be a reference for the assessment and training of ECMO nurses.