Improving quality through an integrated partnership model.

Improved models for quality management/quality improvement (QM/QI) activities must include a partnership with other disciplines and integration of functions and responsibilities. Current and projected changes in health care dictate the need to change policy, roles, behavior, standards, and patient care delivery systems to be more cost efficient. Nursing leaders must be proactive in this new arena to ensure the continued survival of nursing. The incorporation of the integrated partnership model into QM/QI activities provides methods to review issues at the most appropriate level to ensure speedy resolution.