Objective: To extend an association based research utilization program to a comprehensive program and process that advances evidence-based practice among childbearing, newborn and women’s health nurses.
Design: Grounded in the Stetler model of research utilization, this program of multiple multi-site projects demonstrates achievable clinical and health outcomes through systematic integration of research into clinical practice with volunteer nurse scientist teams, volunteer clinical nurses and association staff.
Population, Sampling, Setting, Years: In 1989, the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nursing made a commitment to advancing practice of nurses who practice in the specialties of women’s health and newborn care. This commitment manifested itself as a formal program, now titled Research-Based Practice (RBP) program. Projects take place in various healthcare settings including hospitals and ambulatory settings with populations targeted by the project aims. Five projects have been completed; two others are in process: · RU1 - Transition of Pre-Term Infant to Open Crib (1990-1993) · RU2 - Management of Women in Second Stage Labor (1993-1996) · RU3 - Continence For Women (1996-1998) · RBP4 - Neonatal Skin Care (1997-1999) · RBP5 – Cyclic Perimenstrual Pain and Comfort Management (1998-2001) · RBP6 – SUCCESS – Setting Universal Cessation Counseling, Education, and Screening Standards: Nursing Care for Pregnant Women Who Smoke (1999-2004) · Cardiovascular Health for Women: Primary Prevention (2001-2003)
Concepts Studied: Integrating research into practice, effectiveness of evidence-based clinical practice guideline; efficacy; effect of nurse using guideline on health of women and newborns.
Methods: Evolving processes that involved (1) topic/area identification and confirmation, (2) appointment of a science team, (3) development of a research-based guideline, (4) development of specific data collection tools for outcome measurement, (5) identification of national multi-site site selection criteria, (6) training and support for selected site coordinators, (7) logistics and project management, and (8) fund development.
Findings: Practice change outcomes and effect on women’s and newborn’s health for 3 recent projects will be reported.
Conclusions: A new model of research utilization is emerging from this experience that is advancing evidence-based practice through multiple processes.
Implications: The model and processes may be applied to other settings.
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