DEFINITION OF TERMS Competency - An expected and measureable level of nursing performance that integrates knowledge, skills, abilities, and

judgment, based on established scientific knowledge and expectations for nursing practice. Continuity of care - An interprofessional process that includes healthcare consumers, families, and other stakeholders in the development of a coordinated plan of care. This process facilitates the patients transition between settings and healthcare providers, based on changing needs and available resources. Evaluation -The process of determining the progress toward attainment of expected outcomes, including the effectiveness of care. Nursing - The protection, promotion, and optimization of health and abilities, prevention of illness and injury, alleviation of suffering through the diagnosis and treatment of human response, and advocacy in the care of individuals, families, communities, and populations. Nursing practice - The collective professional activities of nurses characterized by the interrelations of human responses, theory application, nursing actions, and outcomes. Standards - Authoritative statements defined and promoted by the profession by which the quality of practice, service, or education can be evaluated.