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Transforming an organization into an evidence-based enterprise is a complex undertaking. Critical components that must be in place to enhance success include:
A Philosophy, Mission and Commitment to EBP (a written commitment to advance EBP across the organization)
A Spirit of Inquiry (health professionals are encouraged to continuously review and analyze practices to improve patient outcomes)
A Cadre of EBP Mentors (an adequate number of individuals who have in depth knowledge and skills in EBP, mentoring others, and overcoming barriers to individual and organizational change)
Administrative Role Modeling and Support (leaders who value and model EBP as well as provide the needed resources to sustain it)
Infrastructure (tools and resources that enhance EBP across the organization)
Recognition
In order for an organization to be successful in integrating EBP, leaders must be involved, engaged, and invested in the transformation. Leaders must have: a vision for EBP; a written strategic plan; strong beliefs about EBP and its sustainability; and preparation to persevere through the challenging opportunities that lie ahead in the journey.
A nurse executive in a free standing pediatric setting leveraged her vision for EBP in her organization by engaging in a data driven, methodological process that has led to the establishment of an innovative and pioneering program of evidence-based practice. Internally, methodical engagement throughout the hierarchy of the organization has fostered an environment where EBP has developed, grown and sustained. Externally, development of collaborative relationships with an academic partner with EBP expertise has meaningfully informed the leader’s ability to build these EBP support structures. The executive’s relationship based style of leadership will be presented including strategies implemented to engage key stakeholders from the Board, the C-suite, administration and the bedside to catapult her vision into becoming a reality.
Methodology
The nurses executive’s step by step journey will be described including: sharing her vision and engaging multiple stakeholders; conducting a comprehensive organizational assessment of readiness for EBP; establishment of a collaborative agreement with an academic partner with expertise in EBP; supporting the development of a cadre of EBP mentors and; development of internal mechanisms to facilitate the growth and empowerment of the EBP mentors.
Results
Successful collaboration with an external EBP team.
Identification of key internal personnel to best engage in leading the frontline EBP journey.
Development of a cadre of successful EBP mentors.
Identification of educational needs of key leaders to assure successful implementation and sustainability of EBP in the organization.
Provision of targeted education.
Conclusion
Leaders with a vision are critical to the successful implementation, integration, and ultimate sustainability of systems and structures that support a culture of evidence-based practice. Through partnerships, engagement throughout the organization and relationship based leadership, one visionary can truly make all the difference.