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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.