Elevate NPD · One-Page Series

Competency Validation Planner

Decide how each competency will actually be validated, who signs it off, and when it happens across orientation. Then generate a clean plan you can hand to preceptors and leadership. Works for any department.

Dr. Kai M. Nissen, DNP, RN, NPD-BC, CNOR, LSSGB · Elevate NPD

1 Set up the plan

Name the unit and cohort this plan is for. Every field is optional.

2 The validation methods

Validation means demonstrated performance, not a signature. Pick the method that actually proves competence for each item.
Return demonstrationNurse performs the skill on request to a set standard.
Direct observation of daily workValidator watches real practice, unannounced where possible.
Written test / post-testBest for knowledge and recall, weak for hands-on skill.
Case study or scenarioTests reasoning and prioritization on a realistic problem.
Simulation / mock eventFor high-risk, low-frequency events like codes.
Chart audit / evidence of daily workDocumentation and QI data as proof of practice.
Peer reviewA qualified peer assesses against shared criteria.
Teach-back / verbal reasoningNurse explains the why, not just the steps.

3 Map your competencies

Edit any competency, set its method, validator, and timeline, remove what doesn't apply, or add your own.
Set a method, validator, and timeline for each competency.

4 Your validation plan

Ready to validate, not just plan?

This planner maps what to validate and when. The Periop Competency Validation Pack gives you the procedure-specific direct-observation tools and three-tier scoring rubrics to actually run the validation and document it defensibly. For other service lines, let's build your validation system together.

Periop Competency Validation Pack → Single-Orientee Orientation Tracker →
Building this across a facility? Start a facility inquiry →
Evidence base & references ▸

The validation-method categories and the principle that competence must be demonstrated rather than signed off follow the Wright Competency Assessment Model and the ANPD competency framework. Wright model · ANPD Scope & Standards (2022). The timeline phases are a practical planning structure, not a prescribed schedule; adapt them to your program.

AORN®, ANPD, and ANCC are referenced as sources only. None of these organizations sponsor, endorse, or are affiliated with Elevate NPD or this tool, and no endorsement is claimed or implied.