Competencies for dermatology nurse practitioners.

The number of nurse practitioners (NPs) specializing in dermatology has been rapidly rising. Most dermatology NPs acquire their knowledge and skills through post-master's continuing education, select NP fellowship programs, and on-the-job training. However, the professional competencies for dermatology NPs have not been defined or standardized. Competencies require unique knowledge, skills, and judgment for the care of dermatology patients. A national task force and validation panel was convened to define the entry-level competencies for dermatology NP practice.