Public health nursing practice guidelines: an evaluation of dissemination and use

Public health nursing needs to build a practice on research-based knowledge. Public health guidelines are one strategy to achieve this goal. Using research-based knowledge, the Minnesota Practice Enhancement Project (MPEP) developed positive parenting and family violence prevention guidelines for public health nurses (PHNs). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the dissemination and use of the MPEP guidelines using a survey of PHNs and telephone interviews of public health nursing directors. Results indicated that respondents viewed the guidelines as important, but identified numerous barriers to integrating the guidelines into their practice. Major barriers included lack of time in their work day, complex guideline structure, and competing agency demands and priorities. Findings were consistent with Roger's Diffusion of Innovations theory, which describes factors associated with the adoption of a new idea or practice. Recommendations for effective dissemination include administrative support and structure to increase PHN intentional use of practice guidelines, a simplified guideline format, and mentorship in guideline use.