Collaboration of nursing and child life: a palette of professional practice

This evidence-based practice (EBP) article begins with a case study background. Case studies can be used to illustrate the unfolding of the nursing process, from assessment to reassessment, for particular patient care situations. The evidence-based process, and its importance for successful clinical outcomes, is explicated after the case study presentation. This is an example of how EBP is an integral part of what we do as healthcare professionals: When we are faced with clinical dilemmas, evidence-based tools are there to guide us to solutions. In this example, Child Life and Nursing worked collaboratively to identify key clinical issues. They consulted with clinical experts within the hospital, and they used scientific rationale to select therapeutic interventions to support a patient and her family through several crisis situations. The EBP tools, seeking clinical expertise and applying research-based interventions, resulted in successful outcomes for a complex patient care situation.