According to Benner, what feature is characteristic of a nurse at the "proficient" level?

A nurse operating at the "proficient" level, as described by Patricia Benner in her novice to expert framework, distinctly emphasizes managing care rather than merely concentrating on individual tasks or skills. At this stage, a proficient nurse develops an understanding of the overall care situation, integrating experience with clinical judgment to prioritize patient outcomes effectively. This holistic approach showcases their ability to assess and respond to patient needs in a way that goes beyond technical proficiency, leading to better coordination of care and improved patient experiences.

Proficient nurses are capable of seeing the big picture and can identify patterns and nuances in patient care, allowing them to make well-informed decisions. By focusing on managing care, these nurses ensure that they deliver comprehensive services that prioritize the welfare of patients, which is essential in fostering effective healthcare delivery. This is a fundamental aspect distinguishing proficient nurses from those who are at earlier stages of their development, where technical skills or theoretical knowledge might be more heavily emphasized.