Learning Objective #1: Analyze three strategies for evidence-based practice implementation in an acute care setting

Learning Objective #2: Identify two tools that assist staff in the review of evidence-based nursing practice

---

Evidence based nursing combines critically evaluated research data with clinical experience and is an important tool in the nursing process. Nurse researchers from Texas Children's Hospital - Center for Clinical Research, along with members of the Clinical Practice Council (CPC) have developed an evidence-based practice (EBP) approach to promoting excellence in patient care. The CPC is a group of nursing representatives from every nursing unit in the hospital charged with the review and development of Hospital Clinical Practice Guidelines. EBP implementation included three stages: 1) development of an EBP template, resources materials, and staff education; 2) integration of evidence into existing nursing policies; and 3) identification of clinical problems needing research investigation. Implementation of EBP first began with an orientation for all nurses. Lectures, evidence search manuals, computer resources, and literature summary templates were developed. The second phase of EBP integration involved the collaboration among researchers and clinicians to revise existing nursing policies and procedures. A research mentor was assigned to each policy to work with expert clinicians to evaluate existing evidence and incorporate state-of-the art practices into revised policies. The evidence supporting or refuting each policy was summarized using EBP templates developed by the research faculty. Finally, through an evaluation of existing clinical practices, areas needing empiric data were identified. CPC members worked with the research faculty to identify research projects needed to support critical clinical issues. During the first year of the EBP model implementation, four research areas were identified: pain, temperature measurement, peripheral line care, and central line dressing change practices. Research projects were implemented at the unit level with staff nurses involved in all phases of the research process.