What does 'education' entail in the context of professional credentialing?

In the context of professional credentialing, 'education' encompasses a broad range of training and experiences that are deemed appropriate for acquiring the credential. This includes formal education from recognized institutions, but it also extends to relevant training, clinical experiences, workshops, and other professional development activities that contribute to a nurse's qualifications.

Credentialing bodies recognize that a combination of various educational experiences enhances a professional’s competency. By including training and experience as a necessary component, the framework supports a holistic approach to professional development, emphasizing practical skills and knowledge that apply directly to patient care and nursing leadership.

In contrast, narrow definitions such as only formal education from a university or exclusively focusing on internships or documented clinical experiences fail to capture the full spectrum of learning and development that occurs in the nursing profession. Therefore, the emphasis on training and experience appropriate for the credential reflects an understanding of what it takes to be fully prepared and competent in a clinical setting.