Paper: Lessons Learned in an Educational Collaboration to Implement Evidence-Based Practice (20th International Nursing Research Congress Focusing on Evidence-Based Practice)

Tuesday, 14 July 2009: 4:05 PM

Catherine R. Coverston, RNC, PhD
College of Nursing, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT
Sheri P. Palmer, MSN, RN
College of Nursing, 533 SWKT, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT

Learning Objective 1: identify at least two pitfalls and successful strategies for working with international colleagues to implement evidence based practice.

Learning Objective 2: describe ways to include undergraduate and graduate nursing students in evidence-based collaboration and research with international students.

Cross border implementation of evidence based practices is complex and challenging. Differences in cultures, practice, and communication make these activities unique, yet rewarding. Trust, as with any teamwork, is the most important component, starting with respect for the knowledge and skills of both teams. Other issues in initiating evidence based practice in another country are: varied expectations and record keeping, access to health care, and linguistic and cultural communication. We have found including students in evidence based practice changes to be a fulfilling experience that provides confidence and know-how for their future practice.

Recognition of potential benefits is the key factor in changing practice, especially with cross border relations. Access to current research for all team members is one of the most important components of successful decision-making for implementation projects. However, the high cost of this access is prohibitive for many well-educated practitioners. Providing heard copies with highlighting and/or translation of key concepts of articles can help those who are not research savvy or fluent in English.

Personal and cultural humility, along with knowledge of the unit's current practices and beliefs are also essential in implementing new practices. Finding local champions to continue the work after you have gone provide the best assurance of long term change. Every unit is different in tis practices, and those that seem natural to one group may be rigorously questioned by another. In summary, our experience shows that cross border implementation of evidence based practices is attainable, but worthy of specific considerations to guide the process to success. In this session we will share our experiences over nearly ten years working across cultures and borders to improve care based on evidence. We will share our challenges and successes and invite participants to share as well.

See more of: Using Evidence in Global Practice
See more of: Evidence-Based Practice Sessions – Oral Paper & Posters