Professional development.

Abstract

Professional development is a nebulous concept that pertains to the professional growth of individual nurse clinicians. While there is some overlap with the concept of competence and competencies, professional development encompasses more than that which is mandated by instituations and regulating bodies. This chapter outlines the responsibilities of individuals and organizations in promoting professional development and examines the impact such development can have on individual nurses, healthcare organizations and, most importantly, healthcare outcome of the patients. This chapter also examines both the formal and informal avenues emergency nurses can pursue to professionally grow. A guide to outlining the essential elements required to conduct a successful education session is not included; rather a brief overview of useful educational theories and strategies is given. A short exploration into the barriers that prevent access to professional development programs and the challenges facing the tertiary sector is also included.