Implementation of Evidence-Based Nursing at the Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands: A Three Component Approach

Maassen, Susanne

Monday, July 11, 2011: 10:15 AM

Susanne Maassen, RN, MSc
Care academy, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands

Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to learn about the effective combination of three components in the implementation of Evidence Based Nursing on nursing wards.

Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to take knowledge of lessons learned during the implementation of Evidence Based Nursing at the Erasmus MC.

Implementation of Evidence Based Nursing (EBN) on nursing wards is considered a challenge. Research shows that nurses experience barriers to EBN on individual and organizational level (Brown, et al., 2008; Koehn & Lehman, 2007; Pravikoff, et al., 2005). Individual barriers most frequently named are lack of knowledge on how to search for information and how to critically appraise information. The number one organizational barrier is lack of time for EBN during working hours. Brown et al (2008) also identifies as an organizational barrier to successful implementation of EBN a lack of autonomy among nurses themselves to influence evidence-based improvements in care.

At the Erasmus MC a three component approach is used to implement EBN. The first component is a new developed training program. The purpose of the program meets the need for knowledge about the principles and methods of EBN. The program is characterized by a low threshold approach, a fixed structure and adequate supervision by nursing scholars. There are also several modules available which match the skills that nurses already possess. At the same time, the second component is positive stimulation from the organization for the promotion of EBN. This includes a grant program through which nurses are able to create time for their EBN project. Finally as the third component, nurses of the Erasmus MC themselves are working on their own position and autonomy by association and sharing knowledge.

The three components provide for both individual and organizational barriers that nurses experience regarding EBN. All components are evaluated positively in qualitative evaluations and the implementation is considered successful. But the assurance is still a challenge. Points of interest lie in creating time without grants and changing the culture in which EBN is considered as a normal part of the daily nursing routine.

See more of: Global Findings Around Evidence-Based Nursing
See more of: Evidence-Based Practice Sessions: Oral Paper & Posters