Evidence-based policy: implications for nursing and policy involvement.

Area of Science:

• Public Policy
• Health Policy
• Nursing Studies

Background:

• Evidence-based policy making is promoted in UK government.
• This approach is expected to enhance policy quality and nurse participation.

Purpose of the Study:

• Critique the concept of evidence-based policy making.
• Demonstrate its limitations as a "new model" of policy.
• Highlight its potential to distract from practical nurse involvement.

Main Methods:

• Critical analysis of the evidence-based policy concept.
• Examination of nurse involvement in policy processes.

Main Results:

• The emphasis on evidence-based policy is problematic.
• It is not a "new model" of policy making.
• It may divert attention from essential nurse policy engagement.

Conclusions:

• Nurses require policy development and analysis skills.
• Moving from policy literacy to competence necessitates a critical view of evidence-based policy.
• Practical engagement is crucial for nurses in policy making.