A nursing‐led pathway to safe task sharing in Japan: Interprofessional simulation and a common competency credential.

Aim: To propose a nursing‐led pathway for safe task sharing in Japan to address population aging and workforce shortages. Methods: This Viewpoint outlines a practical route centering on five shared competency domains (decision‐making, safety management, communication, equipment operation, and troubl...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Japan Journal of Nursing Science Vol. 23; no. 1; pp. 1 - 5
Main Authors: Kubota, Kazumi, Nishimura, Ayako, Funaki, Jun
Format: tables/charts Journal Article
Published: Wiley-Blackwell Jan2026
Online Access:View this record in EBSCOhost
Description
Summary:Aim: To propose a nursing‐led pathway for safe task sharing in Japan to address population aging and workforce shortages. Methods: This Viewpoint outlines a practical route centering on five shared competency domains (decision‐making, safety management, communication, equipment operation, and troubleshooting) verified through interprofessional simulation. We describe a common competency credential (CCC) assessed via standardized scenarios, objective rating scales, and mastery thresholds. Results: A nursing‐led policy pathway would align education, credentialing, and financing via the national fee schedule. By embedding stop rules, clear supervision levels, and psychological safety, the approach addresses concerns regarding safety, legal accountability, and hierarchy in the Japanese context. Conclusions: With the 2024 fee schedule emphasizing team‐based care, nursing‐led interprofessional simulation and a CCC offer a feasible, evidence‐informed route to safer care, greater efficiency, and a more sustainable workforce.