Sustaining change can be difficult, as there are many variables that can affect implementation. One critical component of EBP is to ensure that practice change is part of an organization’s culture so it will continue to impact outcomes over time. Name two potential barriers that may prevent your EBP change proposal from continuing to obtain the same desired results 6 months to a year from now, and your strategies for overcoming these challenges.
Introduction:
Implementing evidence-based practice (EBP) in healthcare organizations is a complex process that requires careful planning and consideration. While successful implementation of EBP is essential, it is equally important to sustain the changes made to ensure long-term positive outcomes. However, there are several potential barriers that may hinder the continuity of desired results six months to a year after implementing an EBP change proposal. In this paper, two potential barriers to sustaining change in EBP will be discussed, along with strategies for overcoming these challenges.
Barriers to Sustaining Change in EBP:
Barrier 1: Lack of Organizational Support
One potential barrier to sustaining change in EBP is the lack of organizational support. Implementing EBP requires support from various levels within the organization, including leadership, managers, and frontline staff. Without this support, it may be challenging to sustain the changes made and ensure that they continue to impact outcomes over time. Organizational support is essential for providing the necessary resources, promoting a culture of EBP, and fostering an environment that encourages and values evidence-based practice.
Strategy 1: Creating a Culture of EBP
To overcome the barrier of lack of organizational support, it is crucial to create a culture of EBP within the healthcare organization. This can be achieved by educating and engaging all stakeholders about the benefits of EBP, including the leadership team, managers, and frontline staff. Providing education and training sessions on EBP principles, promoting the use of evidence-based guidelines and protocols, and recognizing and celebrating successful EBP initiatives can help foster a culture that values and supports evidence-based practice. Additionally, involving stakeholders in the decision-making process and seeking their input can enhance their sense of ownership and commitment to sustaining the changes.
Barrier 2: Resistance to Change
Another potential barrier to sustaining change in EBP is resistance to change. Resistance to change can arise from various sources, such as fear of the unknown, lack of confidence in new practices, and reluctance to deviate from established routines. Resistance to change can undermine the sustainability of an EBP change proposal and hinder the achievement of desired results.
Strategy 2: Addressing Resistance to Change
To address the barrier of resistance to change, it is important to implement strategies that promote acceptance and overcome reluctance. One approach is to involve key stakeholders in the change process from the beginning, seeking their input and addressing their concerns. Providing clear and evidence-based rationale for the proposed change, along with emphasizing the potential benefits and positive impact on patient outcomes, can help alleviate fears and increase acceptance. Additionally, offering education, training, and ongoing support to staff members can enhance their confidence in the new practices and empower them to embrace change. Communication is also critical in addressing resistance to change, as it allows for open dialogue, clarification of misconceptions, and the opportunity to address concerns in a timely manner.
Conclusion:
Sustaining change in EBP is a crucial aspect of ensuring long-term positive outcomes in healthcare organizations. However, there are potential barriers that can hinder the continuity of desired results. Lack of organizational support and resistance to change are two significant barriers that may prevent an EBP change proposal from continuing to obtain the same desired results six months to a year from now. Creating a culture of EBP and addressing resistance to change are two strategies that can help overcome these barriers and promote the sustainability of EBP initiatives. By engaging stakeholders, providing education and training, and fostering open communication, organizations can enhance their capacity to sustain change in EBP and improve patient outcomes over time.