What process do RNs use to assess and evaluate the quality of nursing care provided by peers?

The process used by registered nurses (RNs) to assess and evaluate the quality of nursing care provided by peers is known as peer review. This process involves a systematic evaluation of a colleague's performance and professional practice, typically focusing on adherence to established standards of care and guidelines. Peer review emphasizes collaboration among nursing staff and aims to foster an environment of continuous improvement, education, and accountability within the nursing profession. It is an essential tool for ensuring high-quality patient care and promoting a culture of excellence in clinical settings.

In contrast, performance appraisal is generally a more formal method of evaluating an employee's performance, often conducted by a supervisor or manager, rather than involving peer-to-peer assessment. Clinical supervision is typically focused on the development of skills and competencies in a supportive manner, which may not primarily center on evaluation of care quality. Quality control refers to a systematic process designed to ensure that products or services meet certain standards, which may include aspects of healthcare delivery but does not specifically pertain to the peer assessment of nursing care.