Evidence in Hand: Optimizing the Unique Skill Set of a Hospital-Based Center for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented challenges in healthcare settings.
• Hospitals required timely and relevant evidence to guide clinical decisions and protect staff.
• Existing structures for evidence dissemination were often insufficient to meet the rapid demands of the pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe how a hospital-based nursing research center adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To highlight the role of a specialized center in providing evidence for clinical operations.
• To demonstrate the impact of evidence-based practice on patient care and staff safety during a public health crisis.

Main Methods:

• A hospital-based center for nursing research and evidence-based practice leveraged its existing skill mix.
• The center proactively developed and responded to requests for evidence.
• Products were created to support decision-making for administrators and healthcare staff.

Main Results:

• The center provided timely and relevant evidence concerning patient and family care.
• Evidence was supplied for the protection of direct care providers and support staff.
• The center's contributions tangibly impacted clinical operations and practice.
• Positive outcomes were observed in the clinical environment.

Conclusions:

• A multiprofessional center for nursing research and evidence-based practice is crucial in a pandemic.
• The specialized contributions of such centers are vital for effective healthcare response.
• The pandemic highlighted the unique value and expanded role of nursing research centers.