At present, the implementation of evidence-based practice in healthcare is one of the most effective methods to significantly improve working conditions and patient outcomes. However, recent research by Pereira et al. (2018) demonstrates a relatively low level of EBP implementation among nurses of approximately 33%. Another study by Shuman et al. (2018) suggests that a large number of nurses have a vague understanding of EBP but are hesitant to use it in their practice. From these considerations, it is essential to elaborate on the EBP principles and apply them to clinical practice.
Personally, I believe that I have a clear understanding of primary EBP principles since the current course has taught me how to collect and use evidence-based data. During the course, I have learned the importance of credible health databases, empirical research, and sharing of valuable information. According to the EBP implementation scale, I would say that I have applied all eighteen questions in my practice to a certain degree. For instance, critical appraisal of a clinical research study was one of my primary methods to acquire new knowledge and use it to create the PICOT question. Consequently, I found that sharing accumulated knowledge with colleagues and patients is a great way to stimulate a healthy working process and improve relationships. Although I was not doing it every single week, I am certain that this approach has made a positive change in my workplace. Furthermore, extensive academic research proves the direct relation between EBP implementation and nurses’ competencies in various skills in healthcare (Teolis, 2020). Ultimately, I believe that using the eighteen EBP principles in my practice has significantly helped me to formulate the PICOT question and improve my nursing competencies.
References
Pereira, F., Pellaux, V., & Verloo, H. (2018). Beliefs and implementation of evidenceābased practice among community health nurses: A crossāsectional descriptive study. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 27(9-10), 2052-2061.
Shuman, C. J., Powers, K., BanaszakāHoll, J., & Titler, M. G. (2019). Unit leadership and climates for evidenceābased practice implementation in acute care: a crossāsectional descriptive study. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 51(1), 114-124.
Teolis, M. G. (2020). Improving nursesā skills and supporting a culture of evidence-based practice. Medical Reference Services Quarterly, 39(1), 60-66.