Why you should read this article:

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To recognise the role of ward accreditation in ensuring healthcare organisations are providing safe and effective care

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To enhance your knowledge of the elements of an effective ward accreditation programme that supports quality assurance

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To understand how evidence-based changes can be implemented successfully in healthcare settings

Ward accreditation is fundamental in contemporary healthcare delivery. One NHS trust in southwest England that had been placed in special measures introduced a ward accreditation programme – known as the ASPIRE programme – but the trust’s senior nursing leadership team raised concerns about the level of quality assurance provided. Therefore, the trust revised its newly created ward accreditation programme, referring to the evidence base to re-evaluate the metrics used for assessment. Five new elements, including direct registered nurse care time and ward climate, were introduced in the accreditation process. The revision improved confidence in the quality assurance provided by the programme, which became central to the trust’s overall improvement plans.