The Current State of EBP; Challenges and Opportunities for Nurse Leaders

Although it is well established through research that evidence-based practice (EBP) improves quality of care and patient outcomes as well as reduces healthcare costs, it is not consistently implemented by clinicians. Recent findings from research indicate that many of the same barriers to EBP that have been identified for decades continue to exist across the United States, which calls for radical change within healthcare systems. Further, recent research has indicated that nurse leader/manager resistance is a major barrier that prevents clinicians from implementing EBP (Melnyk et al, 2012).

This presentation will describe the latest evidence on barriers and facilitators for implementing and sustaining EBP in healthcare settings. Key strategies for nursing leaders in creating a culture and ecosystem in which EBP thrives in their organizations will be highlighted. Recommendations for needed research also will be discussed.