Gallagher-Ford, Long
respond
EBP is integral to the profession of nursing as it has the ability to increase successful outcomes in patient treatment. Expanded demand for provision of quality and safe care furnished by providers who believe in accountability is a main reason for the emphasis on EBP in nursing practice (Melnyk, Gallagher-Ford, Long, & Fineout-Overholt, 2014). To model evidence-based practice in my future advanced practice setting I must use my growing knowledge of the research process. One way in which I can do this is by keeping current with research studies and continuing to learn from and critique them as needed. I can share my knowledge with co-workers and encourage them to use the latest evidence-based research in their clinical practice. By doing so myself I can be a model of how use of EBR translates in to EBP and improves patient outcomes.
In order to promote such an environment it is crucial to have the support of the organization. It is my duty to advise others, including those in charge, of the importance of maintaining a finger on the pulse of the latest in nursing research. I can ask specifically for the tools related to research, such as online and print journal subscriptions focusing on the type of care provided in the practice. I can also offer to spearhead educational opportunities to impart my knowledge of EBP and the research process to my co-workers.
FNPs have direct access to patients and have firsthand knowledge regarding what is working in regards to patient care versus practices that may no longer be valuable. FNPs can then facilitate problem-solving in cases of the latter, contributing to evidence-based research and therefore changing evidence-based practice in the process. I would emphasize the important role we as FNPs have in the EBP process and urge the practice to see the benefits of fostering a workplace supportive of EBP (Black, Balneaves, Garossino, Puyat, & Qian, 2015).
As for the detractor, I would relay the message that evidence-based practice is responsible for generating comprehensive and useful healthcare guidelines and practice which affects patient outcomes. Positive patient outcomes equals happier patients, and, as a result, a happier practice. EBP is also tasked with improving overall healthcare systems, as well as advancing the practice of practitioners. I would remind this person that using EBP will improve the workplace atmosphere and even his personal practice (Correa-de-Araujo, 2016).