Abstract: Objective: To develop the sensitive quality index system of psychiatric nursing and to provide standard and quantitative reference for monitoring and evaluation of nursing quality in psychiatric hospitals and department of psychiatry in general hospitals. Methods: We set up a research team and took the three-dimensional evaluation model of structure-process-outcome as the theoretical basis. The primary index was determined by using literature review and analysis, and experts discussion. The index was further revised according to two-round Delphi consultations. Results: The final sensitive quality index system of psychiatric nursing included 3 first-class indicators and 19 second-class indicators. The positive coefficients in the two rounds of expert consultation were all 100.0%, and the authoritative coefficient was 0.905 and 0.918 respectively. The coordination coefficient ranged from 0.112 to 0.148 (P<0.05). Conclusion: The sensitive quality index system of psychiatric nursing based on Delphi method is scientific, credible and practical, which is beneficial to the management and continuous improvement of psychiatric nursing quality.

Key words: nursing quality; sensitivity; index system; psychiatric department; Delphi method