Departmental culture: its influence on practice

Abstract

■ A qualitative study was undertaken using interviews as a principle method.

■ The aim was to identify nurses' perceptions of the factors influencing nursing assessment.

■ Trained nurses who regularly undertook triage and assessment were invited to participate.

■ Assessment is dependent on culture, environment, ability and communication skills. These are vital for developing family centred care and proactive practice.

■ Departmental culture was the major factor identified in the study.

■ Culture is neither easy to identify, manage, influence or change.