Nursing Audits: Definition, Purpose & Benefits

Definition

A nursing audit is a systematic review of nursing care quality.

Types

• Internal: Conducted by facility nurses.
• External: Conducted by outside nurses.

Scope

• Documentation review (charts, notes)
• Direct observation of care
• Interviews (nurses, patients, team)
• Data analysis (satisfaction, infection rates, falls)

Outcomes

Findings drive improvements: policy updates, targeted training, new programs. Audits ensure high-quality, standards-compliant patient care.