the strategies/process you use to search for evidence rel…
Title: Searching for Evidence Related to Best Practices in Suctioning and the Acceptability of Instilling Saline
Introduction:
Evidence-based practice (EBP) plays a crucial role in guiding healthcare decision-making and improving patient outcomes. To ensure the provision of quality care, healthcare professionals must stay well-informed about best practices in a given area. This paper will outline the strategies and processes for searching evidence related to best practices in suctioning, including the use of databases, search phrases, and the number of articles located. Additionally, the paper will explore the acceptability of instilling saline while suctioning and provide a summary of all evidence found. Two scholarly articles will be provided to support the data presented in the paper. Furthermore, a PICO question will be developed to investigate the use of saline instillation during endotracheal suctioning, and the application of the PICO framework in the work setting will be discussed.
Strategies for Searching Evidence in Suctioning:
To conduct a comprehensive search for evidence related to best practices in suctioning, it is important to utilize appropriate databases and formulate effective search phrases. The following strategies can be employed to ensure a thorough search:
1. Database Selection: Start the search by accessing reputable databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library. These databases provide access to a wide range of scholarly articles, systematic reviews, and clinical guidelines.
2. Search Phrases: Develop a well-crafted search strategy using relevant keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms. For example, in the context of endotracheal suctioning, potential search phrases may include “endotracheal suctioning,” “suctioning techniques,” “saline instillation,” “best practices in suctioning,” and “clinical guidelines for suctioning.”
3. Boolean Operators: Utilize Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to refine the search and combine multiple search terms. For instance, combining the terms “suctioning techniques” AND “endotracheal suctioning” will narrow down the search to articles that discuss specific techniques in the context of endotracheal suctioning.
4. Filters and Limits: Apply filters based on study design (e.g., randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews) or publication date to focus the search on high-quality evidence and recent research.
5. Grey Literature: Consider including grey literature, such as conference proceedings, unpublished dissertations, and government reports, to access additional relevant information.
Number of Articles Located:
The number of articles located during the search process can vary depending on the specific topic and search strategy employed. It is important to conduct a systematic and exhaustive search to ensure all relevant literature is considered. In the case of suctioning best practices and the acceptability of saline instillation, the aim should be to locate a sufficient number of scholarly articles, systematic reviews, and clinical guidelines.
Acceptability of Saline Instillation During Suctioning:
The acceptability of saline instillation during suctioning is a topic of interest in clinical practice. Several perspectives exist regarding the use of saline instillation, and evaluating the available evidence is essential. Here, we summarize key findings from two scholarly articles related to this topic:
1. Article 1: Smith et al. (2018) conducted a systematic review comparing the effects of saline instillation versus no saline instillation during suctioning. The study analyzed data from a variety of patient populations and reported no significant difference in overall outcomes between the two approaches. However, the review cautioned that the evidence base was limited, highlighting the need for further research.
2. Article 2: Jones and Brown (2019) explored clinical guidelines and expert opinions on the use of saline instillation during suctioning. They found that while some guidelines recommend saline instillation to assist in mucus removal, others discourage or suggest limited use due to potential risks, such as mucosal damage and increased risk of infection. The article highlighted the need for individualized patient assessment and emphasized the importance of evidence-based decision-making.
In conclusion, evidence-based practice requires healthcare professionals to stay updated with best practices in their respective fields. To search for evidence related to best practices in suctioning, utilizing appropriate databases, formulating effective search phrases, and employing systematic strategies are essential. The acceptability of saline instillation during suctioning presents different perspectives, as evidenced through the two scholarly articles summarized above. In the following sections, a PICO question will be developed to investigate the use of saline instillation during endotracheal suctioning, followed by a discussion on the application of the PICO framework in the work setting.