Exploring the experiences of general practice nurse peer appraisers

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Professional Development
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Appraisals linked to personal development plans (PDPs) are mandatory for NHS staff.
• NHS policy stresses appraisal, PDPs, lifelong learning, and clinical supervision for nurses.
• Limited research exists on appraisal for general practice nurses (GPNs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore GPN appraisers' perceptions and experiences of appraising nurse colleagues.
• To identify barriers and facilitators in implementing the GPN appraisal process.
• To enhance the quality and person-centred nature of GPN PDPs.

Main Methods:

• Volunteer GPN peer appraisers (n=10) underwent NES-approved training.
• Forty peer appraisals were conducted (3-5 per appraiser).
• Two focus groups with appraisers were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed.

Main Results:

• Three main themes emerged: role issues, reflection, and appraisal interview practicalities.
• Effective appraisal can be provided by GPNs and is highly valued by appraisers and appraisees.
• Specific barriers and facilitators to peer appraisal implementation were identified.

Conclusions:

• GPNs can deliver effective peer appraisals, highly valued by participants.
• Addressing identified barriers and leveraging facilitators can improve GPN appraisal implementation.
• High-quality peer appraisal is crucial for GPNs, promoting reflection and person-centred PDPs.