This guidance should be used in conjunction with the revised assessment judgment framework, which is one of the tools HIQA uses to assess compliance with the regulations and standards. Inspectors will use this guidance alongside the assessment judgment framework. The purpose of the guidance is to provide additional supporting information to inspectors on assessing compliance and offer guidance on reviewing each regulation and standard.

Therefore, the guidance gives greater detail on how to assess and what to review during fieldwork planning, gathering of relevant information and evidence onsite and the making of judgments about compliance.