Basic nursing care: The most provided, the least evidence based - A discussion paper

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Healthcare Quality Improvement

Background:

• Basic nursing care is fundamental yet lacks robust evidence.
• There is a critical need to prioritize and evaluate basic care activities.
• Improving basic care can enhance patient outcomes and overall quality of care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and discuss the "Basic Care Revisited" (BCR) research programme.
• To highlight the importance of evidence-based basic nursing care.
• To foster awareness and expand knowledge in fundamental nursing practices.

Main Methods:

• The study is a discussion paper based on nursing literature, theory, and clinical/research experience.
• It outlines the development and content of the BCR research programme.
• The BCR programme is presented as a strategy to advance basic nursing care.

Main Results:

• The BCR programme focuses on four key areas: bathing and dressing, communication, mobility, and nutrition.
• It aims to build a sustainable research collaborative for basic nursing care.
• The programme addresses strategies for building research capacity in this field.

Conclusions:

• Prioritizing basic nursing care through research is essential.
• The BCR programme seeks to increase awareness and knowledge of evidence-based basic nursing care.
• Re-evaluating basic nursing activities positively impacts patient, staff, and organizational outcomes.