- What do you see as similarities and differences between the research process, the Evidence-Based Practice process, and nursing process? Include rationale to support your response.
- Share an example from your nursing practice setting of how a decision was made to change a procedure or practice.
- What steps were used in the decision-making process?
- What evidence was considered for decision-making?
- Throughout the decision-making process, what research did you reference and present in order to support the proposed change?
- Was the change effective? Provide rationale.
The research process, Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) process, and nursing process are interconnected but distinct processes in the field of nursing. Here are the similarities and differences between these processes:
- Research Process: The research process involves systematic investigation, data collection, and analysis to generate new knowledge or validate existing knowledge. It is a broader process used in various disciplines, including nursing. Researchers follow a scientific methodology, such as developing research questions, designing studies, collecting and analyzing data, and disseminating findings through publications.
Similarities with EBP and Nursing Process: The research process forms the foundation of evidence used in EBP and the nursing process. EBP and the nursing process rely on research findings to inform decision-making and improve patient outcomes.
Differences: The research process is primarily focused on generating new knowledge or validating existing knowledge. It may not always have a direct clinical application. In contrast, EBP and the nursing process are more specifically directed towards the application of research evidence in clinical decision-making and patient care.
- Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) Process: EBP is a problem-solving approach that integrates the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient preferences to guide decision-making in healthcare. It involves the systematic identification, appraisal, and application of research evidence to answer clinical questions and improve patient outcomes.
Similarities with Research Process: EBP relies on the research process to generate and update the evidence base. Both processes involve critical appraisal of research studies to evaluate the quality and relevance of the evidence.
Differences: EBP is focused on integrating research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values to guide decision-making. It encompasses other sources of evidence, such as clinical expertise, patient preferences, and organizational resources. In contrast, the research process is focused on the generation and validation of knowledge through scientific inquiry.
- Nursing Process: The nursing process is a systematic problem-solving framework used by nurses to provide individualized patient care. It involves assessing, diagnosing, planning, implementing, and evaluating nursing interventions based on the patient’s needs and goals.
Similarities with Research Process and EBP: The nursing process can be influenced by research findings and EBP. Nurses may incorporate evidence-based interventions into their care plans and evaluate patient outcomes using research-based indicators.
Differences: The nursing process is primarily focused on the delivery of patient care. It includes elements such as assessment, diagnosis, and evaluation that are specific to nursing practice. While research and EBP can inform the nursing process, they are not the central components of the process itself.
Example of Decision-Making Process in Nursing Practice: In my nursing practice setting, a decision was made to change the procedure for preventing catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). The decision-making process involved the following steps:
- Identification of the problem: A rise in CAUTI rates and concerns about patient safety prompted the need for change.
- Literature review: Research articles and guidelines on CAUTI prevention were reviewed to identify evidence-based interventions and best practices.
- Evaluation of current practice: The existing procedure for catheter care and maintenance was assessed to determine its effectiveness and identify potential areas for improvement.
- Development of an evidence-based solution: Based on the literature review, a new catheter care protocol was developed, incorporating evidence-based strategies for reducing CAUTIs.
- Implementation and evaluation: The new protocol was implemented, and data on CAUTI rates were collected and analyzed to determine the impact of the change.
Evidence considered for decision-making: Research articles, clinical practice guidelines, and quality improvement data on CAUTI prevention were considered. This evidence provided information on best practices, effective interventions, and outcomes associated with different approaches to catheter care.
Research referenced: Several research studies on CAUTI prevention, including randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, were referenced to support the proposed change. These studies provided evidence for interventions such as proper hand hygiene, aseptic technique during catheter insertion, daily assessment of the need for catheterization, and regular catheter care.
Effectiveness of the change: After implementing the new catheter care protocol, there was a noticeable decrease in CAUTI rates over time. Compliance with evidence-based practices improved, and patient outcomes improved as well. Regular monitoring and evaluation confirmed the sustained reduction in CAUTI rates, indicating that the change was effective in improving patient safety.
Rationale: The change was based on evidence-based interventions and best practices identified through a thorough literature review. The implementation of these evidence-based strategies led to a reduction in CAUTI rates and improved patient outcomes, demonstrating the effectiveness of the change.