Skip to content

Improving safety and quality of care

Last Updated 29/10/2026

In this guide

Nursing associates improve the quality of care by contributing to the continuous monitoring of people’s experience of care. They identify risks to safety or
experience and take appropriate action, putting the best interests, needs and preferences of people first.

Outcomes:

Back to top

The proficiencies identified below will equip the newly registered nursing associate with the underpinning knowledge and skills required for their role in contributing to risk monitoring and quality of care.

At the point of registration, the nursing associate will be able to:

5.1understand and apply the principles of health and safety legislation and regulations and maintain safe work and care environments

5.2participate in data collection to support audit activity, and contribute to the implementation of quality improvement strategies

5.3accurately undertake risk assessments, using contemporary assessment tools

5.4respond to and escalate potential hazards that may affect the safety of people

5.5recognise when inadequate staffing levels impact on the ability to provide safe care and escalate concerns appropriately

5.6understand and act in line with local and national organisational frameworks, legislation and regulations to report risks, and implement actions as instructed, following up and escalating as required

5.7understand what constitutes a near miss, a serious adverse event, a critical incident and a major incident

5.8understand when to seek appropriate advice to manage a risk and avoid compromising quality of care and health outcomes

5.9recognise uncertainty, and demonstrate an awareness of strategies to develop resilience in themselves. Know how to seek support to help deal with uncertain situations

5.10understand their own role and the roles of all other staff at different levels of experience and seniority in the event of a major incident.