Reflective Practice and Quality Assurance in Nursing

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards designed to reinforce key concepts related to reflective practice and quality assurance in nursing.

Reflective Practice

A process of self-examination and evaluation to improve professional skills and judgment.

Quality Assurance (QA)

A program designed to maintain standards in nursing practices ensuring safe and competent care.

CNO

College of Nurses of Ontario, the regulatory body for nursing in Ontario, responsible for setting practice standards.

SMART Goals

A framework for setting goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

SWOT Analysis

A strategic planning tool used to identify Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats related to a professional goal.

RHPA

Regulated Health Professions Act, which governs the conduct of regulated health professionals in Ontario.

Clinical Judgement

The ability to make informed decisions in nursing practice based on patient assessment and evidence.

Self-Assessment

A component of the QA program that encourages nurses to evaluate their own practice to identify learning needs.

Cultural Humility

An approach to providing care that recognizes and respects diverse cultural backgrounds and experiences.

Accountability

The obligation of nurses to take responsibility for their actions and decisions in practice.

Code of Conduct

A set of guidelines established by the CNO outlining professional standards for nursing practice.

Compassionate Care

Providing care that is empathetic and understanding of patients’ emotional and psychological needs.

Professional Development

Continuous education and skill enhancement activities that nurses engage in to advance their practice.

Therapeutic Relationship

A supportive and beneficial relationship formed between a nurse and a patient.

Information Literacy

The ability to recognize when information is needed and effectively locate, evaluate, and use that information.

Competency

The ability of a nurse to perform their role effectively, as measured against established standards.

Evidence-Based Practice

A nursing approach that integrates the best available evidence with clinical expertise and patient values.

Feedback

Information provided about someone's performance that can help them improve their practice.

Ongoing Professional Development

Continuous learning through formal and informal methods to keep nursing skills relevant and up-to-date.

Learning Activities

Planned tasks or experiences aimed at achieving specific learning goals.

Evaluation Criteria

The standards or methods used to assess whether a learning goal has been achieved.

Confidentiality

The obligation to keep patient information secure and private according to professional guidelines.

Ethical Practice

Conducting nursing duties according to moral principles and codes of ethics.

Autonomy

The right of nurses to make independent decisions regarding patient care.

Coaching Support

Guidance provided to nurses for skill enhancement and professional growth.

Peer Review

An evaluation of a nurse's work by colleagues to ensure quality standards are met.

Quality Improvement

Ongoing efforts to improve services, processes, and outcomes in healthcare settings.

Patient-Centered Care

A healthcare approach that respects and responds to the preferences, needs, and values of patients.

Framework

A structured approach used to analyze and support a specific practice or program.

Research in Nursing

A systematic process for investigating nursing practice to derive new knowledge and enhance care.

Competence Development

The process through which nurses improve their ability to deliver safe and effective care.

Continuing Education

Ongoing training and education required to maintain nursing licensure and enhance professional skills.