Describe the steps of the evidence-based research process and the importance of using them

 Evidence-based practice (EBP) unites research evidence with clinical expertise and encourages individualized care by including patient preferences (Stevens, 2013). A major paradigm shift in the way nurses began to think about research results, framed the context for improvement, and employed change to transform healthcare was apparent with EBP on the scene. Patient care outcomes substantially improve with the use of EBP and tested interventions.

Two nursing educators and researchers, Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt, suggest seven steps in the EBP process, all proving vital for effective implementation and integration into the clinical setting (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2011, as cited in DeNisco & Barker, 2016, p.465). In the past, it has taken years to transfer new knowledge into practice, so speed is the primary goal for EBP models (DeNisco & Barker, 2016). Many models exist and common aspects include: identifying a problem and having a spirit of inquiry, asking practice questions, reviewing the latest evidence, critically appraising the evidence, integrating personal expertise and patient preferences in and grading, and finally organizing pieces in a meaningful way.

In the initial stages of locating information, I would start searching in PubMed because it is a free database accessible from any mobile device (DeNisco & Barker, 2016). Begin with a researchable and answerable question is essential. The PICOT question formulation method is widely used for clinical problems. Searching databases such as CINAHL, The Cochrane Library, or MEDLINE would be my next approach. The CINAHL database provides access to over 3,000 nursing and allied health journals yet, a subscription is required for access.

Nurses within leadership have an unprecedented opportunity as mentioned by Stevens (2013), to step forward and transform healthcare from a systems perspective, focusing on EBP for patient safety, patient engagement, and clinical effectiveness. The “next big ideas” in EBP focus on making systems improvements and transforming healthcare. Moving beyond the individual and shifting the focus on groups, health systems, and the community is one part. Dissemination and implementation of strategies to assure effective and safe patient care are delivered rapidly is the second part. While there are benefits to the evidence gathered and applied, the true benefit goes to the patient.

Resources

DeNisco, S. M., & Barker, A. M. (2016). Advanced practice nursing: Essential knowledge for the profession. Jones & Bartlett Learning.

Stevens K. R. (2013). The impact of evidence-based practice in nursing and the next big ideas. Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 18(2), 4.