Reflections on appraisal

Abstract

The value of appraisal for nurses was the subject of this naturalistic inquiry. The case study was conducted in one health district, at the time that the NHS was in the middle of the drives towards efficiency and effectiveness that accompanied the introduction of the government's White Paper, Working for Patients1 . The findings of the research are presented as eight reflections that are offered for consideration to anyone involved in the appraisal process. These reflections emphasise the value and need for appraisal for nurses, and offer a number of key pointers to ensuring success in the enterprise.