[How do nurses describe timeliness in the delivery of nursing interventions? A qualitative study]

How do nurses describe timeliness in the delivery of nursing interventions? A qualitative study Abstract: Background: Timeliness of nursing interventions is fundamental to professional medical care. Although nurses have developed strategies to manage time resources, nursing interventions are often carried out too early or too late. Both can have a negative impact on the quality of care and safety. However, no publications are available describing nurses' views on the appropriateness of time to perform nursing interventions. Aim: The aim was to describe what registered nurses in the hospital understand by the timeliness to deliver care. Methods: For this qualitative study, eight registered nurses were interviewed individually. Data analysis was performed using content analysis according to Mayring. Results: For the participants, timeliness in performing care interventions can be described as relational and dynamically changing over time. For them it is not limited to a defined point in time and they explain it as a time frame. From their point of view, timely action can prevent harm and suffering and ensure patients safety and well-being. Environmental factors, nursing goals and the urgency of actions influence them whether they act in a timely manner. Conclusion: Among the participating nurses, there exists a shared, often implicit, understanding of timeliness. Results of this study may help to understand the implicit understanding and the related processes and contribute to quality assurance in nursing.