What is the term used to describe nurses at the highest level of competence?

The term that describes nurses at the highest level of competence is "Expert." In the context of nursing and competency development, the “Expert” level reflects a deep understanding and intuition about clinical practice, based on extensive experience and knowledge. Expert nurses can easily recognize patterns in patient care situations, apply critical thinking, and make swift, informed decisions. They often demonstrate holistic patient assessments and comprehensive care, navigating complex clinical scenarios with confidence.

This level of competence is characterized by a high degree of proficiency in clinical skills and the capability to mentor and guide less experienced clinicians. Experts also tend to have refined judgment, which allows them to predict potential complications and outcomes effectively. In contrast to other levels of competency, such as "Advanced Beginner," "Proficient," or "Competent," which represent earlier stages of skill development, the "Expert" designation denotes mastery and an ability to innovate or adapt practices based on the evolving needs of patients and healthcare environments.