ASPAN standards

Abstract

Perianesthesia nurses have a responsibility to know and understand their standards of clinical practice. Exploring the process of standards development, with resources and position statements included, allows perianesthesia nurses to have a greater appreciation for the origin and intent of clinical practice standards. The registered professional nurse is required by law to carry out care in accordance with what other reasonably prudent nurses would do in the same or similar circumstances. The provision of high quality care consistent with established standards is critical. ASPAN Standards describe: •the focus of our activities•all phases of perianesthesia care•any location where this care is delivered•the recipients of our care and•our professional responsibilities and competencies. Once initiated and defined, standards of practice become helpful everyday tools. ASPAN standards are implemented in audit processes, performance improvement situations, to protect all patients from harm and improve the quality of care delivered. ASPAN Standards are also referenced in medical litigations. Day to day clinical applications of the ASPAN standards of perianesthesia nursing can be offered for current practice issues.