Evolution of peer review: enhancing communication through team review

Few institutions have successfully implemented peer review. It is considered a hallmark of the nursing profession and in theory has positive effects by stimulating personal and professional development and challenging nurses to think critically about their practice. The key is that the change must be managed, unit readiness assessed, and an implementation plan developed. It is suggested that all members of the critical care team be involved in the review process. Characteristics of a unit that is ready to implement team review are presented and discussed.