Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was psychometric testing of the tool, Self Evaluation of CNS Competency Development.
Methods: The tool was developed using the NACNS competencies, with some concepts added to reflect graduate program objectives. The student sample was 33 students who provided informed consent and completed the tool. The preceptor sample was 6 preceptors who clinically supervised 6 students.
Results: As expected, independent samples t tests with matched pairs of 6 students and preceptors showed that there were no mean differences in 9 of the 12 categories within the 3 spheres of influence. Using the contrasted groups approach, discriminant function analysis showed that 91.7% of beginning and ending students were correctly classified. Cronbach alpha was estimated as .96.
Conclusion: Results show partial support for criterion-related validity and construct validity. Tool reliability is satisfactory. Further testing with larger samples of students and clinical nurse specialists is recommended.