Evidence Based Practice
Abstract
The subject of evidence-based practice is discussed in this paper beginning with a definition of the term taken from our text by Blais and Hayes (2011). I discuss the way in which we care for intravenous lines as an example of a procedure done at our hospital that uses evidence-based guidelines like those listed on the National Guideline Clearinghouse website to reduce central line associated blood stream infections. A summary of an article demonstrating the use of a solution of chlorhexidine and alcohol is used as an example of a practice that was changed as a result of evidenced-based practice. Although the policy and procedures at our facility reflect practices that are done as a result of evidence-based practice, I do point out the practice we have of routinely replacing peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC’s) on patients admitted from other facilities or a private home as a practice that should be further investigated. The discontinuation and re-insertion of a peripherally inserted central catheter just because it’s from “the outside” is not evidence-based reasoning for this practice.
The conclusion of this paper is a synopsis of an article taken from the April 2011 issue of Critical Care Nurse which points out common and current practices of critical care nurses that are done as a matter of tradition or “sacred cows” and that current research shows that evidence-based practice and not tradition is the best nursing practice.
Evidence-based practice is proven to provide better nursing care and optimal patient outcomes.
Evidence Based Practice The process of bringing together theory, clinical decision-making and knowledge of research processes results in what is known as evidence-based practice (Blais & Hayes, 2011). In our hospital many of the nursing duties we perform are a result of evidence based practice. One nursing task that is done based on evidence-based practiced in our hospital is in the care and maintenance of
The subject of evidence-based practice is discussed in this paper beginning with a definition of the term taken from our text by Blais and Hayes (2011). I discuss the way in which we care for intravenous lines as an example of a procedure done at our hospital that uses evidence-based guidelines like those listed on the National Guideline Clearinghouse website to reduce central line associated blood stream infections. A summary of an article demonstrating the use of a solution of chlorhexidine and alcohol is used as an example of a practice that was changed as a result of evidenced-based practice. Although the policy and procedures at our facility reflect practices that are done as a result of evidence-based practice, I do point out the practice we have of routinely replacing peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC’s) on patients admitted from other facilities or a private home as a practice that should be further investigated. The discontinuation and re-insertion of a peripherally inserted central catheter just because it’s from “the outside” is not evidence-based reasoning for this practice.
The conclusion of this paper is a synopsis of an article taken from the April 2011 issue of Critical Care Nurse which points out common and current practices of critical care nurses that are done as a matter of tradition or “sacred cows” and that current research shows that evidence-based practice and not tradition is the best nursing practice.
Evidence-based practice is proven to provide better nursing care and optimal patient outcomes.
Evidence Based Practice The process of bringing together theory, clinical decision-making and knowledge of research processes results in what is known as evidence-based practice (Blais & Hayes, 2011). In our hospital many of the nursing duties we perform are a result of evidence based practice. One nursing task that is done based on evidence-based practiced in our hospital is in the care and maintenance of