The influence of peer review on nursing practice

Purpose: The purpose of this integrative literature review was to identify whether peer review improves nursing practice. Literature was reviewed, analyzed and synthesized to explore the implications peer review has on nursing practice. Design: Integrative review that included a review a quantitative and qualitative research studies and a review of literature that explored the practice of peer review. Methods: Articles published since 2009 that included information on peer review were critically evaluated and reviewed based on the Professional Nursing Standards of the American Nurses Association (ANA) and its definition of nursing peer review. Findings: From the available literature on peer review in nursing, ten studies were analyzed. The majority of the studies reviewed were within both the nursing field and the United States. Peer review was implemented in a variety of ways. Perceptions of peer review, implementation and implications of peer review were outlined in the analyzed studies. Constraints of peer review were lack of time and an inadequate number of staff to support the peer review process. Most participants desired to continue peer review after implementation and some used the process to sculpt future professional endeavors. Conclusions: The interpersonal nature of peer review can foster reflective practice. Communication and collaboration are essential when using peer review. Peer review is a reciprocal process and can facilitate learning from others. The use of standards when completing peer review can assist in measuring the quality of care. Relevance to Nursing Leadership: Understanding the process of peer review and the implications on nursing practice supports the Association Of Nurse Executive (AONE) competencies and the use of the Healthy Work Environment Standards of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)