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Nurses use the principles of evidence-based practice to make optimal decisions about patient care. When nurses integrate the best available science into their practice, they work from a holistic, patient-centered approach. This post outlines how evidence-based practice is used in nursing, as well as its benefits for patients, nurses, and institutions. So, what is evidence based practice definition? It is a method by which practitioners across the healthcare professions review and assess the most current, highest-quality research to inform their delivery of care. Although there is no precise standard for what constitutes evidence-based practice in nursing, the approach consists of three main components and five basic steps. What Are the 3 Components of Evidence-Based Practice?If you’re a nurse who wants to make decisions according to evidence based medicine practice, use these three components:1,2
What Types of Research Are Used in Evidence-Based Practice?Levels of evidence in healthcare research can be grouped into four categories according to how credible the information is.3 These four categories, ranging from the most credible to least, include:
You can glean useful information from any of these types of healthcare research, but you should strive to make decisions based on the most credible science available. What Are the 5 Steps of Evidence-Based Practice?According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are five steps in the process of implementing evidence based medicine practice.4 Also known as the “five A’s of evidence based practice” in health science, these steps include:
Some healthcare organizations choose to add a sixth step, “disseminate,” to the cycle.5 When you share your own research and evidence with colleagues, this supports the widespread use of evidence-based practice in nursing. You can disseminate knowledge by communicating the information directly to fellow practitioners, publishing in peer-reviewed journals or professional newsletters, or presenting at conferences. Benefits of Evidence-Based PracticeEvidence-based practices have proven to lead to better patient, provider, and institutional outcomes, such as more consistent care and reduced costs.6 Benefits to the field of nursing include:
Evidence-based practice also benefits nursing by keeping practices current and relevant, increasing nurses’ confidence and decision-making skills, and contributing to the science of the profession.7 Examples of Evidence-Based Practice in NursingThrough evidence-based practice, nurses have improved the care they deliver to patients. Key examples of evidence-based practice in nursing include:
When you apply scientific evidence to your nursing practice, it helps you deliver high-quality, safe care—and it improves outcomes for patients, your workplace, and your own career. If you are studying to become a nurse or a nurse practitioner, you can expect to learn how to evaluate research, make informed decisions, and deliver the best care you can. At the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, coursework in both of our graduate nursing programs—the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)—is dedicated to the evidence-based practice process. The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, and Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates designed for working nurses. Our degrees are offered online, with optional on-campus immersions* and an annual interprofessional trip abroad. Role specialties include Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse Educator,** and Nurse Executive. The MSN has several options to accelerate your time to degree completion. Complete coursework when and where you want—and earn your advanced nursing degree while keeping your work and life in balance. *The FNP role specialty includes two required hands-on clinical intensives as part of the curriculum.
Why should nurses use evidenceEvidence-based practice is important for both nurses and patients alike. It allows for healthcare professionals to develop best practices in treating common illnesses and diseases, reduce variation in treatment and increases positive outcomes and recovery.
Why is evidenceThe goal of EBP is to produce positive patient outcomes through the integration of best research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient preferences.
What are the current priorities for nursing research?The priorities for nursing research reflect nursing's commitment to the promotion of health and healthy lifestyles, the advancement of quality and excellence in health care, and the critical importance of basing professional nursing practice on research.
Which goal is the highest priority for research in the nursing profession?What is the highest priority for the importance of research in the nursing profession? -Research findings provide evidence for informing nurses' decisions and actions. -Conduct research to better understand the context of nursing practice.
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