Development of a Core Set of Nursing-Sensitive Patient Outcomes in Intensive Care Units: A Delphi Consensus Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction/Aim: Nursing care constitutes a fundamental determinant of patient outcomes in intensive care units (ICUs); however, the absence of standardised nursing-sensitive indicators constrains the objective evaluation of care quality within this setting. The present study aimed to develop an evidence-informed core set of nursing-sensitive patient outcomes (NSPOs) specific to intensive care nursing. Methods: A Delphi consensus study was conducted between September 2023 and February 2025 at the IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy. The process comprised a preliminary scoping review, followed by two iterative Delphi rounds and a final consensus meeting aimed at refining conceptual domains without modifying item ratings. Thirty-eight ICU nurses evaluated 35 evidence-based NSPOs using a five-point Likert scale. Consensus was defined a priori as ≥75% agreement (scores 4–5), with a minimum response rate of ≥80%. Reliability was assessed using a two-way random-effects Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Results: Fifteen NSPOs achieved the predefined consensus threshold and demonstrated moderate-to-excellent reliability (ICC = 0.65–0.85). The validated core set was organised into four domains—safety, clinical, functional, and perceptual—reflecting both preventive–technical and holistic dimensions of ICU nursing care. Conclusions: This study produced the first ICU-specific evidence-based NSPO core set in Italy, providing a measurable and reproducible framework to support systematic outcome monitoring, and quality improvement in critical care practice.
Source: Clinics and Practice
Institutions: Policlinico San Matteo Fondazione, University of Pavia
Language: English
Topic: Delphi Technique in Research
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,930
OpenAlex ID: W7160101545