Using the Delphi method to develop a clinical skills assessment tool for advanced practice nurses in psychiatry and mental health

Introduction: In France, advanced practice for psychiatric and mental health nurses has been developing since 2019. The acquisition of clinical skills by advanced practice nursing students requires monitoring and evaluation. This article outlines the process for creating an internship logbook.

Objective: To develop and verify a tool for assessing the skills of advanced practice nursing students specializing in psychiatry and mental health during the internship stage.

Method: The Delphi method described by Hasson was used, with the aim of obtaining a consensus of over 80% of the experts consulted.

Results: A panel of ten experts, all internship tutors at partner healthcare establishments of Aix Marseille University, was consulted twice. The internship logbook was composed of 68 items.

Discussion: This tool is the product of a multidisciplinary process including nurses and psychiatric nurses. It can be adapted to a variety of learning environments and helps tutors track the acquisition of clinical skills during the internships, both through external and self-assessment.

Conclusion: A new Delphi consultation will foster uptake of this tool. Advanced practice nurses in psychiatry and mental health will be included in the group of experts.