Sustaining change can be difficult, as there are many variables thatcan affect implementation. One critical component of EBP is to ensurethat practice change is part of an organization’s culture so it willcontinue to impact outcomes over time. Name two potential barriersthat may prevent your EBP change proposal from continuing to obtainthe same desired results 6 months to a year from now, and yourstrategies for overcoming these barriers.
Introduction
Implementing evidence-based practice (EBP) within an organization can bring about significant positive changes in healthcare outcomes. However, sustaining these changes over time may be challenging due to various barriers that can hinder the continued success of an EBP change proposal. This paper will identify two potential barriers that may prevent an EBP change proposal from obtaining the same desired results six months to a year from now, and propose strategies to overcome these barriers.
Barriers to Sustaining EBP Change
1. Lack of Leadership Support
One potential barrier to sustaining EBP change is the lack of support from organizational leadership. Implementing change requires dedicated resources, including time, personnel, and financial investments. Without the commitment and endorsement from leaders within the organization, it becomes difficult to secure these necessary resources to support the continuation of EBP initiatives.
Leadership involvement is crucial in driving and sustaining change because they possess the authority and influence to allocate resources and create accountability structures. Without their active participation and advocacy, EBP initiatives may lose momentum and fail to maintain their desired results over time.
2. Resistance to Change among Healthcare Professionals
Resistance to change is another significant barrier to sustaining the desired results of an EBP change proposal. Healthcare professionals often develop established routines and practices because they have been proven to be effective in the past or are familiar to them. Introducing a new practice or approach through EBP can disrupt these established routines and evoke resistance, particularly if healthcare professionals perceive the change as a threat or challenge to their professional competence.
Overcoming Barriers to Sustaining EBP Change
1. Strategies to Address Lack of Leadership Support
To overcome the barrier of lack of leadership support, it is essential to engage leaders early in the EBP change proposal process and communicate the potential benefits and outcomes that can be achieved through evidence-based practices. By demonstrating the positive impact on patient outcomes, quality improvement, and cost-effectiveness, leaders can be compelled to provide the necessary resources and support.
Additionally, employing change management principles can help address this barrier. Leaders can be educated and provided with training on change management strategies, enabling them to understand the importance of EBP and their role in supporting the change process. This education can equip leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to facilitate and sustain the EBP change within the organization effectively.
2. Strategies to Address Resistance to Change among Healthcare Professionals
To address resistance to change among healthcare professionals, it is crucial to involve and engage them throughout the entire change process. Providing education and extensive training on the evidence supporting the proposed change can help alleviate concerns and increase acceptance among healthcare professionals.
Furthermore, incorporating multidisciplinary collaboration and shared decision-making can enhance buy-in and ownership of the change. Involving healthcare professionals in the planning and decision-making process allows them to contribute their expertise and perspectives, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for the change initiative.
Creating a supportive and inclusive organizational culture is also vital in addressing resistance to change. Recognizing and acknowledging the efforts of healthcare professionals who embrace the change and demonstrate positive outcomes can serve as positive reinforcements and motivate others to adopt EBP practices.
Conclusion
Sustaining the desired results of an EBP change proposal can be challenging, but by identifying and overcoming potential barriers, organizations can establish a culture that supports ongoing implementation of evidence-based practices. By addressing the lack of leadership support through engagement and education, and overcoming resistance to change among healthcare professionals through education, collaboration, and a supportive culture, organizations can increase the likelihood of maintaining the positive outcomes achieved through EBP over time.