Patricia Benner

Patricia Benner is a renowned nursing theorist who developed a model explaining how nurses develop their skills over time. She describes five stages of expertise: novice, advanced beginner, competent, proficient, and expert. As nurses gain experience through practice and reflection, they move through these stages, improving their clinical judgment, decision-making, and confidence. Her work highlights the importance of hands-on experience and continuous learning in becoming a highly skilled healthcare professional, ultimately leading to better patient care.