Abstract:Background & Rationale Although nurses play an increasing role in health policy and advocacy, the concept of political competency remains insufficiently defined within the nursing discipline. This gap limits the integration of political engagement in nursing education and practice. Clarifying this concept is essential to support nurses in advancing health equity and influencing sociopolitical change. Objectives This study aims to analyze and clarify the concept of political competency in nursing using Walker and Avant’s (2014) method. Specific objectives include: To identify the defining attributes of political competency in nursing. To examine its antecedents and consequences. To propose implications for future research and nursing leadership development. Methods A concept analysis was conducted following Walker and Avant’s eight-step method. Data were drawn from peer-reviewed literature focused on political engagement in nursing. The analysis included the identification of defining attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents. No human participants were involved; thus, ethical approval was not required. Expected Outcomes / Significance Findings suggest that political competency encompasses ethical and sociopolitical knowing, courage, perseverance, and persuasion. Its antecedents include reflection, value clarification, and access to sociopolitical resources. The consequences point toward the pursuit of change and social justice outcomes that unfold through sustained political engagement. This analysis contributes to nursing theory by aligning political competency with Benner’s “novice to expert” model and guiding educational strategies that support nurses in becoming effective political actors. Status of Study Completed. This study has been published in the Philippine Journal of Nursing.
Keywords: Global Health Workforce, Political competency, concept analysis, nursing, advocacy, sociopolitical engagement
