When requests for literature searches are received by the Librarian, the nurse is given an introduction to evidence-based nursing and its application at Rochester General.  This includes fine tuning the clinical question.  This initial interaction is non-threatening, and is often the first encounter a nurse has with evidence-based practice.  It is a win-win situation.  It enables the librarian to identify key areas of interest across nursing, and it reassures the nurse that research isn’t too frightening. 

Synergy is also achieved through Librarian participation in EBP committees.  Many educational initiatives have resulted from this participation.  One example is the creation of an internal EBP website to assist the staff in learning more about EBP.  The Librarian also teaches EBP classes on a continuous basis.  This direct interaction with nurses completing pathways, guidelines and protocols has helped establish a stronger bond between nursing and library staff.  Another key strength of the Nurse-Librarian connection is the Librarian frequently acts as a process mentor for nurses needing assistance in completing an EBP project. 
This paper will discuss the role of the librarian in developing clinical questions with nursing staff, and the development of an internal EBP website that actively engages staff in the evidence-based practice approach.  Accessibility to an EBP Hotline and establishing EBP library resources will be highlighted.  Most recently, an institutional subscription to RefWorks was purchased, and its impact on the staff will also be discussed.

See more of EBP Competency and Culture: Developing Education and Resources in a Magnet Hospital
See more of The 17th International Nursing Research Congress Focusing on Evidence-Based Practice (19-22 July 2006)