Edinburgh Napier University

  Accreditation is a means of improving quality through the process of externally reviewing performance against written standards. Following the introduction of clinical governance, participation in quality accreditation schemes has been encouraged. The Royal College of General Practitioners' Quality Practice Award (QPA) is an example of a quality accreditation scheme for primary care practice teams. QPA applies to the wider primary care team and is directly relevant to nursing and midwifery staff employed by or attached to practice teams. QPA supports evidence-based and reflective practice, continuing professional development and team working, all of which are integral to current nursing and midwifery practice. Nurses and midwives working in primary care teams must be aware of QPA and, where necessary, actively and collaboratively participate in this process.