Which ANA Standard addresses quality of practice?

• A. Standard 11
• B. Standard 12
• C. Standard 10
• D. Standard 9

Answer: (C)

Quality of practice is the standard that focuses on ensuring nursing care is delivered safely, competently, and continually improved. It emphasizes accountability for care by engaging in performance improvement and quality assurance activities, using evidence-based practices, and monitoring patient outcomes to drive changes. In practice, this means regularly evaluating how care is provided, identifying areas where outcomes aren’t optimal, and implementing changes to enhance safety and effectiveness. For example, a nurse might track infection rates, review care processes, apply proven protocols, and re-check outcomes to ensure improvements are real and sustained. This emphasis on ongoing evaluation and improvement distinguishes it as the standard that addresses quality of practice.