The Decision-Making Framework for Nurses: A Comprehensive Overview

Nurses play a critical role in healthcare delivery, and their clinical decision-making skills significantly impact patient outcomes. The decision-making framework for nurses provides a structured approach to analyzing and guiding nurses’ clinical decision-making, ensuring safe and effective patient care. This article explores the development, purpose, review process, and scope of the decision-making framework for nurses, drawing from reputable sources such as the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and the Minnesota Board of Nursing.

Development of the Framework

The decision-making framework for nurses was developed by the Tri-Council for Nursing, comprising the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the American Nurses Association (ANA), the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), and the National League for Nursing (NLN), in collaboration with the NCSBN. Recognizing the need for a uniform tool to guide nurses and employers in determining the responsibilities nurses can safely perform, the Tri-Council embarked on this initiative.

Purpose of the Framework

The primary purpose of the decision-making framework is to provide a standardized tool that assists nurses and their employers in determining the scope of practice for nurses. It aims to ensure that nurses are equipped to perform their duties safely and effectively, adhering to the standards established by the nurse practice act and the rules/regulations of each state or jurisdiction.

Review Process

To develop the framework, representatives from the ANA, NLN, and Boards of Nursing, along with NCSBN staff, conducted a methodical review of the literature and existing decision-making algorithms. This comprehensive review process ensured that the framework was evidence-based and aligned with current best practices in nursing.

Scope of the Framework

The decision-making framework considers several factors when determining the scope of practice for nurses, including the nurse’s level of education, licensure, and competence. It also takes into account the standards established by the nurse practice act and the rules/regulations of each state or jurisdiction. This comprehensive approach ensures that the framework is applicable across different nursing roles and settings.

Conclusion

The decision-making framework for nurses is a valuable tool that guides nurses and employers in determining the scope of practice for nurses. Developed by the Tri-Council for Nursing in collaboration with the NCSBN, the framework underwent a rigorous review process to ensure its alignment with evidence-based practices. By considering factors such as education, licensure, competence, and regulatory standards, the framework promotes safe and effective patient care while supporting nurses in fulfilling their professional responsibilities.

References

  1. NCSBN. (2023). Scope of Practice Decision-Making Framework. Retrieved from https://www.ncsbn.org/nursing-regulation/practice/decision-making-framework.page
  2. Minnesota Board of Nursing. (2023). Scope of Nursing Practice Decision-Making Framework. Retrieved from https://mn.gov/boards/nursing/practice/nursing-practice-topics/scope-nsg-pract-decision-making-framework.jsp
  3. Gillespie, M. (2010). Using the Situated Clinical Decision-Making framework to guide analysis of nurses’ clinical decision-making. Nurse Education in Practice, 10(6), 333-340. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nepr.2010.02.003

FAQs

What is the purpose of the decision-making framework for nurses?

**Answer:** The decision-making framework for nurses is a tool that guides nurses and their employers in determining the scope of practice for nurses, ensuring safe and effective patient care.

Who developed the decision-making framework for nurses?

**Answer:** The framework was developed by the Tri-Council for Nursing, comprising the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the American Nurses Association (ANA), the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), and the National League for Nursing (NLN), in collaboration with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

What factors does the framework consider when determining the scope of practice for nurses?

**Answer:** The framework considers the nurse’s level of education, licensure, and competence, as well as the standards established by the nurse practice act and the rules/regulations of each state or jurisdiction.

How can the decision-making framework be used by nurses and employers?

**Answer:** Nurses and employers can use the framework to identify, describe, or clarify the activity, intervention, or role under consideration to determine whether it falls within the nurse’s scope of practice.

What are the benefits of using the decision-making framework?

**Answer:** The framework promotes safe and effective patient care by ensuring that nurses are equipped to perform their duties within their scope of practice, adhering to regulatory standards.

Is the decision-making framework mandatory for nurses to use?

**Answer:** While the framework is not mandatory, it is a valuable tool that can assist nurses and employers in making informed decisions about the scope of practice for nurses.

Where can I find more information about the decision-making framework?

**Answer:** You can find more information about the decision-making framework on the websites of the NCSBN and the Tri-Council for Nursing.

How can I provide feedback on the decision-making framework?

**Answer:** You can provide feedback on the decision-making framework by contacting the NCSBN or the Tri-Council for Nursing.