Care of the critically ill has become increasingly challenging due to demands from external sources to measure the quality and appropriateness of care provided. Quality assurance is the responsibility of every critical care nurse and requires vigilance as well as a knowledge of the principles of standards, monitoring and evaluation. Through quality assurance activities, the contribution of critical care nurses in the achievement of patient outcomes can be measured. Quality assurance challenges us to evaluate the way we practice, and assists us to continuously improve the way we provide care to critically ill patients.

Maxillofacial trauma is a complex phenomenon that creates challenges for the critical care nurse. Effective management of maxillofacial trauma requires a comprehensive understanding of facial anatomy and function. Physiologic requirements, such as airway management and hemodynamic monitoring are the focus during the acute care phase. Nutritional and self care needs are also priorities. A collaborative approach across health care disciplines is essential to healing, the prevention of further injury, and the development of adaptive processes.