Enhancing quality critical care education: establishing a consortium.

The demand for expanded knowledge and accountability in critical care nursing has increased the need for qualified critical care nurses and is tempered by requirements that their preparation be cost-effective. The Emory University School of Nursing (EUSN) has pioneered in meeting this challenge. Since June 1988, a Critical Care Consortium consisting of the EUSN and Emory-affiliated hospitals has been operational, providing uniform critical care education to multiple hospital nursing staffs. Instructional resources are being economically utilized, eliminating duplication of efforts. This collaboration between academic and service settings enhances productivity, quality patient care, professional growth, and promotes significantly greater interinstitutional cohesiveness.