Peer-Review Competency Assessment Engages Staff and Influences Patient Outcomes

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Quality Improvement
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Nurse educators play a crucial role in guiding competency assessments to ensure safe patient care.
• This study focused on an innovative competency assessment for registered nurses (RNs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate RNs' performance in anticoagulation medication, pressure injury prevention, and pain management.
• To assess the effectiveness of a peer-review format for competency evaluation.

Main Methods:

• A unit-based team initiated the competency assessment process.
• Registered nurses (RNs) were required to demonstrate competency achievement.
• Standardized rubrics ensured consistent evaluation.

Main Results:

• The peer-review process was perceived to accurately evaluate and allow demonstration of actual performance.
• Anticoagulation safety measures were sustained.
• Pressure injury prevention measures showed improvement.
• Pain outcome measures did not significantly improve during or after the competency period.

Conclusions:

• Peer-review competency assessment for RNs enhanced professionalism and professional practice evaluation.
• The process was viewed favorably by participants.
• The assessment was associated with positive patient outcomes in specific areas.