Implementing Evidence-Based Practice Facilitators: A Case Series.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Healthcare Management
• Evidence-Based Practice Implementation

Background:

• Strategic planning identified barriers to Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) in the U.S. Military Health System (MHS), including readiness focus, staff turnover, and junior nursing staff.
• An Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) Facilitator role was developed using an evidence-based model and validated competencies to address these implementation challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the initial implementation of the EBP Facilitator role across four military treatment facilities (MTFs).
• To identify common enablers and challenges encountered during the EBP Facilitator role implementation.

Main Methods:

• The EBP Facilitator role was implemented in 2018 at four specific MTFs: Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, 59th Medical Wing, Naval Medical Center San Diego, and David Grant USAF Medical Center.
• A case series approach was used to document the implementation process and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Common enablers included integration into existing structures, leadership support, collaboration with quality improvement initiatives, and partnerships with advanced practice nurses.
• Key challenges were frequent staff turnover, lack of standardized EBP initiative approval processes, and difficulties in measuring the role's impact at MTF and MHS levels.

Conclusions:

• Continued EBP efforts and program maturation are expected to yield measurable outcomes, such as reduced safety events and cost savings.
• The collective impact of EBP Facilitator roles within the MHS will be demonstrated through compiled project outcomes and improved organizational metrics.