Learning Objective #1: Describe the process for accelerating evidence-based practice in clinical practice and educational settings

Learning Objective #2: Discuss outcomes of collaborative partnerships to enhance EBP in educational and clinical practice settings

---

Although initiatives to advance evidence-based practice (EBP) are being implemented in clinical and educational settings throughout the United States, progress remains relatively slow as only a small percentage of clinicians are basing their care on the best evidence. In addition, most Universities and Colleges continue to offer courses in their educational programs that focus on the generation of research instead of the application of research findings to clinical practice. In an effort to accelerate the pace at which research findings are translated into clinical practice to improve patient care and to shift the culture of education to an evidence-based practice approach, a national and statewide consortium was organized and implemented with the specific purpose of advancing evidence-based care. This presentation will focus upon the process through which these consortiums were formed. Strategies to foster collaboration and partnership among leaders in nursing and healthcare will be emphasized. In addition, strategies used to overcome barriers encountered during establishment of the consortiums will be presented. Finally, outcomes of the national and statewide EBP consortiums will be highlighted.