Peer review: an approach to performance evaluation in a professional practice model

Role expectations of staff nurses are changing, and nurses must become empowered and actively involved in facilitating that change, rather than having their role changed for them. The shared governance framework provides an efficient way to meet current changes and increased responsibilities. Peer review is an integral component of this framework. A professional practice model with peer review increases the accountability of its members by encouraging improved work achievement and reinforcing high standards of practice. Promoting communication and sharing of each individual's practice enhances a sense of teamwork and encourages creativity and an increased sense of ownership regarding nursing practice among all model members.