title: Skill analysis part 2: evaluating a practice skill.
abstract: This is the second of three articles exploring skill analysis, assisting readers to evaluate a practice skill of their choice. Sometimes evaluations are made against external reference points, the competencies of the registered nurse or a job description for a post eagerly sought after; sometimes they are made with reference to aspirations--an ideal of the skill in use that the nurse and colleagues admire. Nurses may be understandably anxious about the evaluation of practice skills, as they work in a performance-orientated world where they are judged on whether their practice is competent, safe, ethical, cost effective and efficient. Nonetheless, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of a chosen practice skill is central to practice development. If the skill is to be affirmed, improved or adjusted, it is necessary to evaluate the skill in use.
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Health and Social Care, The Open University, Milton Keynes. altanprice@talktalk.net
authors.forename: Bob
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Price
mesh_terms: D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D011361:Professional Competence; D006113:United Kingdom