Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
Evidence-based practice (EBP) has transformed healthcare decision-making over the past few decades. As an approach that considers the latest research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values and preferences, EBP aims to deliver the highest quality of care. Though first introduced in medicine, EBP is now widely adopted across various health professions including nursing (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2011).
Current State of EBP in Nursing
While over half of nursing practices are evidence-based today, further advancing EBP remains a priority. Several initiatives have supported this goal through education realignment, model and theory development, and promoting adoption in practice settings (Burns & Grove, 2010). For example, influential EBP frameworks like the Iowa model and Ace star model have guided implementation efforts (LoBiondo-Wood & Haber, 2017). As a result, EBP has led to improved health outcomes and more efficient healthcare systems.
Steps in the EBP Process
The core steps of EBP involve asking a focused clinical question, acquiring relevant evidence, critically appraising the evidence, and integrating the findings into practice. When formulating questions, nurses specify the patient population, intervention/issue of interest, comparison intervention if any, and desired outcomes or time frame. Evidence is then sought from various sources and evaluated based on its validity, reliability, and applicability to the question (Newhouse et al., 2007).
Example of EBP in Nursing Practice
One area where EBP has made an impact is blood pressure measurement. Research evidence has established auscultatory methods as most accurate for children compared to oscillometric devices commonly used for adults (Burns & Grove, 2010). This finding has guided clinical guidelines on appropriate BP assessment techniques across patient populations.
Challenges to Advancing EBP
While progress has been made, barriers like insufficient knowledge and education as well as resistance to change still impede full EBP implementation in some settings. Overcoming these challenges requires ongoing efforts like developing educational programs, creating supportive work environments, and demonstrating how EBP leads to better quality care (LoBiondo-Wood & Haber, 2017).
Conclusion
In summary, evidence-based practice has revolutionized nursing and healthcare more broadly. By integrating the best available research evidence with clinical judgment and values, EBP aims to consistently achieve optimal outcomes for patients. Continued work is still needed to address barriers and further strengthen the evidence base that guides clinical decision-making.
References
Burns, N., & Grove, S. K. (2010). Understanding nursing research-eBook: Building an evidence-based practice. Elsevier Health Sciences.
LoBiondo-Wood, G., & Haber, J. (2017). Nursing research-E-book: methods and critical appraisal for evidence-based practice. Elsevier Health Sciences.
Melnyk, B. M., & Fineout-Overholt, E. (Eds.). (2011). Evidence-based practice in nursing & healthcare: A guide to best practice. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Newhouse, R. P., Dearholt, S. L., Poe, S. S., Pugh, L. C., & White, K. M. (2007). Johns Hopkins nursing evidence-based practice model and guidelines. Indianapolis, IN: Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
