Preliminary discussion paper on credentialling in critical care nursing.

The purpose of this preliminary discussion paper is to provide a broad overview and raise issues relevant to the concept of credentialling. It presents issues relevant to the implementation of the process of credentialling by CACCN Inc. and seeks to obtain comments and feedback from members. It is intended not to represent the position of CACCN Inc. but, rather, to present a variety of possibilities for our future direction. Furthermore, it is not intended to provide an exhaustive description of all related issues and concepts. It is considered that much of the detail required will emerge as we further develop our ideas and thinking on these important issues. Your response, therefore, is vital. Credentialling refers to the establishment of a self-regulatory process instituted by the appropriate professional body to determine and acknowledge that an individual has demonstrated the described competence of the relevant specialist nursing role.