Implementation science frameworks used to implement evidence-based practice in nursing: An integrative review

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Implementation Science
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Nurses' understanding of real-world challenges is vital for translating research into practice.
• Implementation science (IS) offers methods to reduce the research-practice gap.
• Gaps exist in understanding how nursing utilizes IS and its proposed frameworks for evidence-based practice (EBP) implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and analyze the frameworks used by nursing teams to implement EBP.
• To synthesize current knowledge on IS frameworks in nursing.

Main Methods:

• An integrative review was conducted searching six databases (2006-2024).
• Studies focused on frameworks used by nurses for EBP implementation.
• Data extraction and analysis by two independent reviewers, with a third resolving disagreements.

Main Results:

• 109 studies were included, with most published after 2020 and conducted in hospital settings.
• 14 distinct IS frameworks were identified.
• The most frequently used frameworks were Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), i-PARIHS/PARIHS, Knowledge to Action (KTA), and Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance (RE-AIM).

Conclusions:

• This review highlights the IS frameworks utilized by nurses to bridge the research-practice gap.
• Findings underscore the need for further exploration and wider adoption of these frameworks in nursing.
• Implementation science frameworks can enhance patient care through improved EBP integration.