Explain the role of evidence in determining best clinical practices Compare and contrast evidence-based practice (EBP) with actual practice Value the concept of EBP as integral to determining best clinical practice (see QSEN pre-licensure KSAs (Enlaces a un sitio externo.)) Develop/demonstrate scholarly writing skills Seek necessary resources related to clinical practice topics and guidelines.
The role of evidence in determining best clinical practices is of paramount importance in the field of healthcare. Evidence-based practice (EBP) has emerged as a widely recognized approach to inform and shape decision-making in clinical settings. In this context, evidence refers to scientific research findings that have been systematically collected, analyzed, and synthesized to provide the best available information for making informed clinical decisions.
One of the primary goals of EBP is to bridge the gap between research evidence and clinical practice, ensuring that the most current and effective interventions are implemented by healthcare professionals. EBP integrates three key components: patient values and preferences, clinical expertise, and the best available research evidence (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2019). These components are carefully weighed and balanced to provide optimal care tailored to the individual patient’s needs.
Contrasting EBP with actual practice highlights the importance of using evidence to guide clinical decision-making. Actual practice may often be based on tradition, personal experience, or the preferences of individual healthcare professionals. While these factors can have some value, they may also lead to inconsistencies and variations in care, which can impact patient outcomes. EBP, on the other hand, emphasizes the use of research evidence that has been rigorously evaluated and deemed reliable. This systematic approach helps minimize the influence of biases and ensures that clinical decisions are based on the best available evidence.
The concept of EBP is highly valued in the healthcare community for several reasons. First, it promotes a culture of continuous learning and improvement. By regularly evaluating and incorporating new evidence, healthcare professionals can update their knowledge and skills, providing better care and outcomes for their patients. Second, EBP enhances patient-centered care. By considering patient values and preferences, EBP helps ensure that treatment decisions align with patients’ goals, preferences, and unique circumstances. This individualized approach fosters shared decision-making and promotes patient satisfaction. Third, EBP reduces variability and standardizes care. By following evidence-based guidelines and protocols, healthcare professionals can reduce the variation in practice and improve the consistency and quality of care across different settings and providers.
To develop and demonstrate scholarly writing skills related to clinical practice topics, it is essential to engage with relevant literature and critically evaluate the evidence. Scholarly writing involves effectively synthesizing and integrating information from multiple sources to provide a comprehensive and well-supported perspective. This requires careful attention to the quality of the evidence, the credibility of the sources, and the relevance to the specific clinical question or topic at hand. Additionally, scholarly writing involves conveying information in a clear, concise, and logical manner, adhering to the conventions of academic writing, such as proper citation and referencing.
In order to seek necessary resources related to clinical practice topics and guidelines, it is crucial to utilize various databases and sources. Academic databases like PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library are valuable resources for accessing research articles, systematic reviews, and clinical practice guidelines. These databases provide access to a wide range of peer-reviewed and evidence-based literature, which can be used to inform clinical decision-making. Additionally, professional organizations, such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) and specialty-focused associations, often publish position statements, guidelines, and standards of practice that can provide valuable insights and recommendations.
In conclusion, evidence plays a critical role in determining best clinical practices by informing healthcare professionals about the most effective interventions and strategies. EBP is a systematic approach that integrates patient values, clinical expertise, and research evidence to guide clinical decision-making. Contrasting EBP with actual practice highlights the importance of using evidence to minimize variations in care and improve patient outcomes. The concept of EBP is highly valued in the healthcare community for its contribution to continuous learning, patient-centered care, and standardization of practice. Developing scholarly writing skills and seeking necessary resources are essential for healthcare professionals to engage effectively with evidence and enhance their clinical practice.