What does Benner's Novice to Expert Framework suggest about skill acquisition in nursing?

Benner's Novice to Expert Framework outlines the stages of skill acquisition in nursing, identifying five levels: novice, advanced beginner, competent, proficient, and expert. The framework emphasizes that while all nurses can progress through these stages, not all will reach the expert level. This means that competence—defined as the ability to perform effectively and efficiently in a given situation—is a more attainable and realistic goal for many nurses.

The rationale for this lies in the diverse experiences and contexts in which nurses practice. Factors such as individual opportunities for learning, variations in clinical exposure, and personal career choices can affect a nurse's development toward expertise. Therefore, recognizing that many nurses may never reach the expert level while still being competent in their roles aligns with the framework's perspective on professional growth. This view supports the idea that ongoing training and development are essential, but not every nurse is expected to achieve the highest level of skill.