Implementation of structure and process standards

A dilemma in critical care nursing practice is how to develop and implement a practical quality assurance program that incorporates high-quality standards of nursing care for critically ill patients and addresses those aspects of care considered important by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). Standards for Nursing Care of the Critically Ill defines and describes structure and process standards and provides a comprehensive guide for the development of a program for the delivery of quality care to critically ill patients. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss practical application of the standards described by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) through the use of policies and procedures that support structure and process standards.