Patricia L. Benner

Patricia L. Benner is a prominent American nursing theorist best known for her work on the development of nursing expertise. She introduced the "Novice to Expert" theory, which describes how nurses gain skills and knowledge through experience. According to her model, nurses progress through five stages: novice, advanced beginner, competent, proficient, and expert. Each stage reflects increasing levels of understanding and skill in nursing practice, emphasizing that hands-on experience plays a critical role in developing clinical judgment and decision-making abilities. Benner's work has significantly influenced nursing education and practice, highlighting the importance of experiential learning in healthcare.