Application of Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing

Application of Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing

Evidence-based practice (EBP) has become a critical concept in nursing practice and education. Use of evidence-based practice is a problem-solving approach to the provision of healthcare. It includes application of best available evidence, clinicians’ expertise, and adhering to patient values and preferences. Areas that the EBP is most applicable include communication for changes in a patient’s condition, patient interaction, training and onboarding of new nursing, shift scheduling and effect of care (Beyea & Slattery, 2006). The application of EBP in nursing practice involves research utilization which entails a critical analysis and evaluation of research findings and establishing how they can be integrated into the clinical practice. This is aimed at improving quality, clinical, and performance with key focus on systems, processes, functional, satisfaction, cost outcomes (Alexender, Adelman, & Dereshiwesky, 2018).

One of the critical areas where evidence-based practice is applied in my work place is in infection control. This is concerned with the prevention of hospital-acquired infections. Infections that appear within 48 hours of hospitalization are regarded as hospital-associated. These are linked with risk factors categorized as iatrogenic, organization, or patient-related. In our institution, the nurses play a critical role in assisting the prevention of illness before it actually occurs by following the evidence-based infection-control policies. Among the key procedures prescribed include maintaining a clean healthcare environment, dressing in protective clothing, use of barrier precautions and following the right handwashing procedures. This process requires commitment and effort from nurses despite them being overwhelmed by responsibilities. 

The application of the evidence-based practice has seen the adoption of an institutional culture within the organization to support effective change in practice. The organization has set a right framework that allows the making of EBP decisions. 

References 

Alexender, L., Adelman, D., & Dereshiwesky, M. (2018). The Application of Practice of Evidence-Based Practice by Online MSN Graduates . Beyea, S., & Slattery, M. J. (2006). Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing; A Guide to Successful Implementation .