Recognizing Quality Nursing Care

When people tell me they received “good” nursing care when hospitalized, I generally ask them to define “good” nursing. They relate tales of having their call bell answered quickly, getting their medications in a timely manner, getting assistance to the bathroom, etc. While these patient care activities are important, they are just the tip of the iceberg of what it means to get quality nursing care.

While most patients and families might not be able to define the ever-expanding role nurses play in the act of giving “good” care, they feel it and know it when they see it.

• Effective care. Patient care should be based on scientific knowledge and evidence-based guidelines. This provides for safe, effective and continuity of care.

• Safe care. Quality patient care should minimize risks and harm to both the patient and the staff. It should avoid preventable injuries and reduce medical errors.

• Timely care. Delays in providing and receiving patient care should be minimal.

• Equal opportunity. Patient care should not differ in quality depending on a person's gender, ethnicity, race, geographical location, or socioeconomic status.

• Efficient health care. Patient care should be delivered in a way where waste is avoided and resources maximized.

• People and culture centered. The nurse and agency should take into account the individual and cultural preferences and aspirations of the patient and community that is being served.