NURSING STANDARDS

Standards may be defined as "Benchmark of achievement which is based on a desired level of excellence.

 All standards of practice provide a guide to the knowledge, skills, judgment & attitudes that are needed to practice safely.

They reflect a desired and achievable level of performance against which actual performance can be compared. Their main purpose is to promote, guide and direct professional nursing practice. 

Why are Standards Important?

• Outlines what the profession expects of its members.
  
• Promotes guides and directs professional nursing practice – important for self-assessment and evaluation of practice by employers, clients and employees.
  
• Provides nurses with a framework for developing competencies
  
• Aids in developing a better understanding and respect for the various and; complimentary roles that nurses have.

The standards of practice shall:
1. Be considered as the baseline for quality nursing care
2. Be developed in relation to the law governing nursing practice
3. Apply to the registered nurse practicing in any setting
4. Govern the practice of the licensee at all levels of practice