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Evidence for nursing practice: a clarification of the issues
1Division of Nursing, School of Healthcare Studies, University of Leeds, Leeds. s.j.closs@leeds.ac.uk
Journal of Advanced Nursing
|July 15, 1999
Summary
Evidence-based nursing clarifies its origins and purpose, addressing concerns that it overlooks clinical skills and patient preferences. This approach emphasizes critical evaluation of diverse evidence types, not just randomized controlled trials.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Science
- Healthcare Policy
Background:
- Nursing profession experiences confusion regarding the 'evidence-based' healthcare movement.
- Anxiety exists that evidence emphasis may disregard practitioner expertise and patient individuality.
Purpose of the Study:
- Clarify key issues in evidence-based nursing.
- Address misconceptions about the nature and application of evidence in nursing practice.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and conceptual analysis.
- Examination of the epidemiological origins and purpose of evidence-based practice.
- Analysis of the meaning, limitations, and types of evidence.
Main Results:
- Evidence-based nursing encompasses more than randomized controlled trials.
- Practitioner skills and patient preferences are integral to applying evidence.
- Different evidence types possess unique strengths and weaknesses.
Conclusions:
- Promote a nuanced understanding of evidence-based nursing.
- Encourage critical awareness of evidence's role in clinical decision-making.
- Reassure nurses that expertise and patient-centered care remain paramount.