Methods: A new paradigm is required that teams up research, evidence-based practice (EBP), and quality improvement experts to create, translate, and implement best practices that generate high- quality, cost-effective patient outcomes (Melnyk, 2015). In order to support this paradigm, infrastructure and support are essential for success. The USAF nursing enterprise has set a plan in motion to achieve this goal by establishing A Clinical Inquiry Cell concept. This concept is being pilot tested at the 711 Human Performance Wing (HPW), at the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine (USAFSAM). The Clinical Inquiry Cell includes Nurse Scientists, Nursing EBP experts, and other Allied Health research specialists. Research and EBP specialists will be utilized to capitalize on their expertise, allowing for facilitated translation of evidence to nursing practice and patient care. The Cell is targeting variances in current practices at Air Force medical facilities and is connecting the clinical staff with current, relevant literature to implement evidence-based decision making and practice changes. Additionally, the EBP expert/Clinical Nurse Specialist is able to connect front-line practitioners and leaders at the medical facilities to the Nurse Scientists when evidence is found to be insufficient and research initiatives are indicated. The EBP expert/Clinical Nurse Specialist then continues to serve as a liaison as the practitioners and researchers work together to conduct research that is needed to address current clinical challenges.
Results:
Lessons learned from this pilot project will be discussed along with how the results will be utilized to inform and improve the Clinical Inquiry Cell concept before expanding to other Clinical Inquiry Cells across disciplines.
The proposed Clinical Inquiry Cell structure is expected to optimize and standardize evidence-based care, and ultimately inform policies, procedures, and practices across the continuum of care for our patients and families, in all settings in the USAF. As we continue to learn from our pilot Clinical Inquiry Cell in collaboration with our CTEP partners, we will further define how to establish and disseminate best practices.
Conclusion: Strategically planned processes and structures for implementing an evidence-based practice/research/QI approach to decision making and practice can be successfully implemented across a highly complex, global healthcare enterprise to drive best practice and deliver improved outcomes.