Evidence-based practice for nurse practitioners with clinical pathways

Evidence-based practice is essential for clinical excellence for nurse practitioners (NPs). Client outcomes must be measured and clearly linked to measurable nursing interventions. To ensure evidence-based practice, clinical pathways can be used as a vehicle to implement care. Clinical pathways track outcomes and interventions, and provide a means for accurate documentation. This article discusses evidence-based practice and the use of clinical pathways by psychiatric NPs in two settings: home care and an outpatient psychiatric clinic.