Setting standards is an integral part of a quality assurance programme. This article outlines the process used within the occupational therapy service of Fife Health Board to define standards of practice which are both relevant to the local situation and in keeping with accepted clinical practice. The process and format used were adapted from that employed within the nursing profession nationally and locally. This method can help to ensure precise interpretation of national guidelines or to set standards relevant to local issues. As such, it can be used within any occupational therapy service.
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