OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to understand clinical nurses’ perceptions of their participation in a formal, annual peer review process at a metropolitan community hospital. BACKGROUND Peer review is an essential component of professional nursing practice for self-regulation of the practice and promotion of quality and safety. Robust empirical evidence of formalized and effective peer review nursing processes is not evident. METHODS A descriptive qualitative study with focus group interviews was used. RESULTS Study results validate that peer review is a meaningful and valuable process used by clinical nurses to support professional growth and development. Nurses reported using their specific peer feedback as part of their annual goal setting. CONCLUSIONS Results validate the importance of implementation of a structured, formal peer review process at the organizational level. The study findings identify that the essential components of an effective peer review process include education for peer facilitators and clinical nurses; dedicated time, space, and privacy to conduct peer reviews; and leadership support.

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