The remedial evaluation instrument. A new approach

This article proposes a different approach to address a reality of the nursing world: that of the Registered Nurse displaying cumulative technical performance deficiencies. This situation, with its accrued practical, intellectual, moral and emotional costs, deserves closer examination and careful reflection. To rehabilitate or to dismiss--two dissenting viewpoints implying ambiguity and distress. The dramatic universal nursing shortage tempts one to override or suppress this problem as does human reluctance to make judgements regarding dismissal. However, the importance of maintaining performance standards is crucial to the well-being of our ultimate consumer--the patient. The authors wish to explore issues surrounding, and the implementation of, one instrument designed to challenge the use of a conventional Employee Performance Appraisal Evaluation. The Remedial Evaluation Instrument (R.E.I.) as proposed in this article, may aid in resolving the problem of substandard employee performance.