NUR 699 Week 1 Discussion Question 1

NUR 699 Week 1 Discussion Question 1 What is the difference between research- and evidence-based practice projects? Provide an example of each one and the reason for the difference. Why should nurses be interested in learning about EBP? Evidence-based practice (EBP) analyzes research findings, quality improvement information, various forms of evaluation data, and expert opinion to identify ways to improve patient outcomes. “Research findings, knowledge from basic science, clinical knowledge, and expert opinion are all considered "evidence"; however, practices based on research findings are more likely to result in the desired patient outcomes across various settings and geographic locations. Evidence-based practice demands changes in education of students, more practice-relevant research, and closer working relationships between clinicians and researchers. EBP provides opportunities for nursing care to be more individualized, more effective, streamlined, and dynamic, and to maximize effects of clinical judgment. EBP is used to close the gap between the research being conducted and the actual practice of nursing. Research is a key component of evidence-based practice. It examines a study and determines its strengths and limitations. A nurse must be able to analyze and recognize the strengths and limitations of the study in order to use evidence-based practice. This is not always an easy task. By understanding how to apply the results of a study into practice, the nurse can decide which studies to be used to sustain best practice. “If a researcher has valid information for choices employed within a study, the results can be valued and incorporated into practice” (Cannon & Boswell, 2011, p. 319).