An evidence-based practice scholars program: one institution's journey toward excellence

The concept of evidence-based practice (EBP) has continued to evolve in the nursing profession as the basis for clinical decision-making. Despite the evidence to support this practice, few nurses at the bedside have received instruction in how to develop a clinical practice question using EBP skills. The EBP Scholars Program was designed at a Midwest pediatric academic hospital to teach EBP skills to enable staff to conduct extensive evaluations of existing literature to improve pediatric patient care. The program provides a comprehensive overview of EBP and the essential components necessary for implementation of EBP in a clinical setting. The development and implementation of an innovative EBP program designed to empower nurses to improve patient outcomes, as well as the lessons learned, are described.