How to Elevate Your Nursing Practice: The Imperative of Using Evidence as a Guide
Use of Evidence as a Guide to Practice
The Importance of Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
An important form of knowledge that must be brought to bear on clinical decision-making, for individuals and for populations, is the ever-increasing volume of evidence. For the nursing profession, the use of evidence as a basis for practice is more than the latest trend. The profession has been intensively exploring and considering issues regarding the use of research since the early 1970s. Historically, Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) have led efforts in many agencies to move toward research-based practice.
CNSs have played a pivotal role in integrating research findings into nursing practice. They have brought research findings to the attention of nursing staff and interprofessional teams, working diligently to develop the research appraisal skills of nursing staffs. This move toward an evidence-based approach has led to significant improvements in patient outcomes and care quality.
The Role of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs)
With the advent of the doctorate of nursing practice, evidence-based practice skills are seen as central to Advanced Practice Registered Nurses’ (APRNs) role competency. This skill set is a differentiating component to the PhD-prepared nurse, who is specifically prepared to conduct research.
APRNs are expected to not only use evidence in their daily practice but also to lead initiatives that promote the integration of research findings into clinical settings. This leadership role is crucial in ensuring that evidence-based practices are consistently applied across various healthcare environments.
Identifying and Locating Evidence
Identifying and locating evidence and research findings is becoming easier with improved technology and categorization. However, clinicians often do not have sufficient experience in the use of various search engines available to retrieve information from databases. The ability to efficiently locate relevant evidence is critical for implementing evidence-based practice.
APRNs could benefit significantly from education on simple tools that could greatly increase the efficiency of their searches. This includes understanding how to use databases effectively, selecting appropriate keywords, and applying filters to narrow down search results.
Collaborating with Health Sciences Librarians
APRNs in all settings engaging in an evidence-based practice project would be well served by developing a relationship with a health sciences librarian. Librarians can assist with searches, save time, and prevent the omission of relevant evidence. Collaborating with a librarian can enhance the quality of evidence retrieved and ensure that all pertinent research is considered in the decision-making process.
The Historical Context of Evidence-Based Practice
The exploration of evidence-based practice in nursing has deep roots. Since the 1970s, the nursing profession has been focused on the integration of research into practice. This movement was initially driven by CNSs who recognized the importance of using research to improve patient care.
Over the decades, the approach has evolved, with an increasing emphasis on evidence-based practice across all nursing roles. The introduction of the doctorate of nursing practice further solidified the importance of research-based decision-making in nursing.
The Impact of Evidence-Based Practice on Patient Outcomes
Research has consistently shown that the use of evidence-based practice leads to better patient outcomes. By relying on the latest research, nurses can make informed decisions that enhance the quality of care provided to patients.
For instance, evidence-based practice has been instrumental in reducing hospital-acquired infections, improving patient satisfaction, and decreasing the length of hospital stays. These outcomes are a direct result of applying research findings to clinical practice.
Challenges in Implementing Evidence-Based Practice
Despite the clear benefits, there are challenges associated with implementing evidence-based practice. One of the primary challenges is the time required to stay updated with the latest research. The volume of new evidence being published is vast, making it difficult for clinicians to keep up.
Another challenge is the varying levels of research literacy among nursing staff. Not all nurses are comfortable with interpreting research findings or applying them to practice. This highlights the need for ongoing education and training in evidence-based practice.
Overcoming Barriers to Evidence-Based Practice
To overcome these challenges, healthcare organizations must prioritize the development of evidence-based practice skills among their staff. This can be achieved through continuous education programs, workshops, and access to resources such as health sciences librarians.
Additionally, creating a culture that values and supports research-based decision-making is crucial. This involves leadership commitment, sufficient time allocated for research activities, and recognition of the efforts made by staff to integrate evidence into practice.
The Future of Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
As healthcare continues to evolve, the importance of evidence-based practice will only increase. The nursing profession must remain committed to integrating research into practice to ensure that patient care is of the highest quality.
Future trends may include the use of artificial intelligence to analyze research data, more personalized evidence-based interventions, and a stronger emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration in evidence-based practice.
FAQs
What is Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing?
Evidence-based practice in nursing involves using the best available research evidence to guide clinical decision-making. It integrates clinical expertise with the latest research findings and patient preferences.
Why is Evidence-Based Practice Important?
Evidence-based practice is important because it leads to better patient outcomes. It ensures that the care provided is based on the most current and relevant research, improving the quality of care and patient satisfaction.
How Can Nurses Stay Updated with the Latest Research?
Nurses can stay updated with the latest research by regularly accessing databases, attending workshops, and collaborating with health sciences librarians. Continuous education and training are also essential.
What Role Do APRNs Play in Evidence-Based Practice?
APRNs play a critical role in evidence-based practice by leading initiatives to integrate research into clinical settings. They are also responsible for educating and mentoring other nurses on the importance of research-based decision-making.
What are the Challenges of Evidence-Based Practice?
Challenges of evidence-based practice include the time required to stay updated with the latest research, varying levels of research literacy among staff, and the difficulty in applying research findings to practice.
How Can Healthcare Organizations Support Evidence-Based Practice?
Healthcare organizations can support evidence-based practice by providing ongoing education and training, access to resources such as health sciences librarians, and creating a culture that values research-based decision-making.
What is the Historical Background of Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing?
Evidence-based practice in nursing has been explored since the 1970s, initially driven by Clinical Nurse Specialists who recognized the importance of using research to improve patient care.
How Does Evidence-Based Practice Improve Patient Outcomes?
Evidence-based practice improves patient outcomes by ensuring that clinical decisions are based on the most current and relevant research. This leads to better care quality, reduced hospital-acquired infections, and improved patient satisfaction.
What Tools Can Help Nurses Implement Evidence-Based Practice?
Tools that can help nurses implement evidence-based practice include databases, search engines, and collaboration with health sciences librarians. Education on how to use these tools effectively is also crucial.
What is the Future of Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing?
The future of evidence-based practice in nursing may include the use of artificial intelligence to analyze research data, more personalized interventions, and a stronger emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration.