Bringing Evidence-Based Practice to Latin America: Transforming Nursing Education and Practice.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Global Health
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Nursing practice in Panama traditionally relies on oral tradition and experience.
• There is a need to integrate best evidence into Panamanian nursing.
• Global attention on evidence-based practice (EBP) necessitates local adaptation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce evidence-based practice (EBP) to nursing leaders in Panama.
• To foster a collaborative effort between USF and the University of Panama.
• To initiate changes in nursing curricula and practice in Panama.

Main Methods:

• A conference-based approach was utilized.
• Collaboration between the University of South Florida and the University of Panama.
• Targeted nursing leaders in Panama.

Main Results:

• Introduction of EBP principles to nursing leaders.
• Established a foundation for curriculum and practice change.
• Facilitated international collaboration in nursing education.

Conclusions:

• The conference-based approach successfully introduced EBP to Panamanian nursing leaders.
• This initiative has the potential to transform nursing curricula and practice.
• International partnerships are valuable for advancing nursing globally.