Construction of the core competencies training system for thoracic surgery specialist nurses: A mixed-methods study

Objective To develop a training system for cultivating the core competencies of thoracic surgery specialist nurses. Methods A mixed-methods study was employed, comprising two stages: (1) A literature review and semi-structured interviews with thoracic surgical healthcare professionals were conducted to develop a preliminary core competencies training system for thoracic surgery specialist nurses; (2) A two-round Delphi expert consultation was conducted to determine the final training system. Results Consensus was reached on the core competency framework (training objectives) (6 first-level, 17 second-level indicators), 92 items of curriculum content along with their corresponding teaching methods, 17 aspects of organizational management, and 8 evaluation methods. The response rate was 100%. The authority coefficient was 0.895. The Kendall’s coefficients for the two rounds of expert inquiry were 0.141 and 0.210, respectively. Conclusion This study developed a scientific, comprehensive specialty training system for thoracic surgery specialist nurses, meeting practical nursing needs, and enriching the field’s evidence base. It delivers substantial clinical and practical value to nursing administrators, practitioners, patients, and the healthcare system. Future research should validate its practical value through larger-scale empirical studies, continuously gather feedback on training outcomes, refine the training system, and further enhance its adaptability and influence.