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Evidence-based practice: to be or not to be, this is the question!
Kathryn Zeitz1, Helen McCutcheon
1Department of Clinical Nursing, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia. zeitz@onaustralia.com.au
International Journal of Nursing Practice
|October 9, 2003
Summary
Evidence-based practice (EBP) in nursing shows limited real-world impact, particularly in vital sign collection. Shifting focus to generating strong evidence and valuing clinical expertise is crucial for improving patient care.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Clinical Practice
- Healthcare Policy
Background:
- Evidence-based practice (EBP) is promoted as key to achieving best clinical practice.
- Despite widespread discussion and centers of excellence, EBP's impact on daily nursing tasks remains minimal.
- Routine vital sign collection in postoperative surgical settings exemplifies practices with scant supporting evidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the actual impact of evidence-based practice (EBP) in nursing.
- To examine the disconnect between EBP principles and daily clinical application.
- To propose alternative strategies for achieving best nursing practices.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and analysis of current nursing practices.
- Critique of existing policies and traditional clinical routines.
- Exploration of the influence of clinical culture on practice implementation.
Main Results:
- Evidence supporting routine vital sign collection in postoperative surgical settings is limited.
- Current policies often reinforce traditional practices rather than supporting EBP.
- Clinical environments and established routines hinder nurses' ability to make individualized patient care decisions.
Conclusions:
- Rethinking the sole reliance on EBP is necessary for advancing best nursing practices.
- Strategies should prioritize the creation of rigorous, relevant evidence.
- Valuing clinical expertise and transforming healthcare cultures are essential for genuine practice improvement.