Assuring quality through staff nurse performance.

Abstract

Quality patient care requires a well-qualified nursing staff. The nurse must have basic credentials, performance must be measured against pre-established standards, and periodic evaluation and feedback must be given to the nurse. Effective clinical advancement programs and systems that define standards and appraise performance must be in place. Continuing education can help the nurse to remain competent and can close the gap between ineffective behaviors and performance standards that serve as goals.