| Learning Objective #1: identify 3 types of practice changes implemented by past certificate program participants in their home settings. | |||
| Learning Objective #2: identify 2 factors cited by past certificate program participants as most useful in implementing practice changes. |
Effectiveness Evaluation: An Evidence Based Practice Certificate Program
Objective: The objective of this research study was to evaluate effectiveness of a three-day Evidence Based Practice Certificate Program in helping participants implement evidence based practice innovations.
Sample and Setting: A 10 question survey was sent to137 past attendees from 2002 -2005. All programs, with the exception of 1 invitational program held off-site, were held in the nursing school’s bioinformatics laboratory. Programs, co-lead by 2 faculty members, included didactic content, research data base computer searches, and small group work on common self-identified clinical practice problems. Twenty-six surveys were returned and analyzed.
Design: A 10 question, 30 minute, survey was developed. Questions included the practice change implemented, major associated internal and external forces, barriers encountered, sources of evidence used, outcomes, status of practice change incorporation, most helpful program factors, suggested additions to content, potential usefulness of an advanced program, and other suggestions or comments.
Findings: Thirteen practice changes were implemented and another two were in process. Additionally, three educators reported changes in strategies fostering EBP, and 1 administrator reported implementing an RN internship program. Several reported additional system changes, including initiating research committees, pilot studies, poster presentations, and in 1 case, trade marking a newly developed evidence based nursing practice framework. Barriers included lack of time, resources, and staff resistance to change. Judged most helpful in the program were both learning of the impact of EBP and how to find EBP sources and 17 thought an advanced program would be helpful.
Conclusions: Program participants applied course content and acquired skills to their home settings or were in the process of doing so. Both basic and more advanced programs are perceived as necessary.
Implications: EBP certificate programs are useful in the effort to improve patient outcomes through increased evidence based nursing practice.
See more of Fostering Evidence-Based Nursing: Education Initiatives
See more of The 17th International Nursing Research Congress Focusing on Evidence-Based Practice (19-22 July 2006)