The Professional Nurse Recognition Program is designed to provide registered nurses with opportunities for growth, development and recognition of their achievements. It is a career advancement program focused on achievements in clinical practice, leadership, education and evidence-based practice/research. This program provides a framework for self directed growth.

Recognition of professional nursing practice is achieved as a nurse progresses from novice to expert.

• Novice nurses have minimal or no professional experience. 
• Advanced beginners have some professional experience and may be transferring to a new practice setting.
• Competent nurses have a level of mastery of professional nursing.
• Proficient and Experienced nurses are those who consistently demonstrate mastery of the nursing process.
• Accomplished nurses are role models and consistently demonstrate mastery of the nursing process, critical thinking skills, and often are sought as resources.
• Expert nurses demonstrate the most complex critical thinking skills and professional nursing practice, frequently are sought as resources by all members of the healthcare team, and serve as role models and clinical leaders.