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A Blog on Observation of EBP
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A Blog on Observation of EBP
Abu-Baker et al. (2021) explain that the role of the DNP-prepared nurse encompasses responsibility for the promotion of EBP in practice to help ensure that patient care provided is aligned with the best available research. This has led to observations of healthcare organizations where EBP has been successfully implemented to improve care and where a failure to implement EBP resulted in less-than-optimal outcomes; these experiences have driven the impetus to create an environment that fosters evidence-based interventions.
Example of Successful EBP Implementation
An example of successful implementation of EBP in my workplace was regarding the management of CAUTIs with a nurse-driven protocol. Past CAUTI rates had been alarmingly high, resulting in adverse patient outcomes and financial penalties from regulatory bodies. In an effort to meet this challenge, the organization adopted an evidence-based bundle of interventions that included proper catheter insertion techniques, frequent assessments of the necessity of the catheter, and appropriate early removal. This protocol succeeded because it was evidence-based on robust research and also called for collaboration across nursing teams. Education and training were given to nurses regarding the latest guidelines provided by the CDC, along with audits to ensure compliance. In just six months, the organization saw a significant decrease in CAUTI rates, improving patient outcomes and illustrating tangible benefits of EBP. This was successful due to clear leadership support, continuous staff education, and a culture of accountability.
Example of Lack of EBP and Its Consequences
I have also seen how pressure injuries are not so well managed in a long-term care setting. Even though there were guidelines on preventing pressure injuries through regular turning of bedridden patients and providing pressure-releasing mattresses, they were not consistently implemented. Short staffing and lack of education were common reasons for noncompliance, and a few patients indeed suffered from stage pressure injuries that prolonged their treatment and increased their costs. As illustrated by Adeyemi et al. (2024), failure to implement EBP compromises not only patient safety but also results in higher healthcare costs and regulatory consequences as seen in this case. The inability to effectively institute evidence-based prevention illustrates the ramifications of failing to apply EBP within nursing practice.
How EBP Could Improve Nursing Practice
Evidence-based guidelines on the prevention of pressure injuries could be the game-changer in nursing care at this facility. If the staff is trained on risk assessment tools and provided with necessary resources, such as pressure-relieving devices, the incidence of pressure injuries can be drastically reduced (Moore & Patton, 2019). Furthermore, a culture of accountability and routine auditing practices will ensure that preventive measures are followed. Integration of EBP in this aspect of care would improve patient outcomes, reduce costs, and help rebuild trust in the facility for high-quality care. I, as a DNP-prepared nurse, would support leadership in prioritizing EBP through the improvement of patient safety and organizational goals.
Through such observations, I try to draw threads towards a discussion on the transforming power of EBP, along with the obstacles which need to be addressed if EBP is to find consistent application in nursing.
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References
Abu-Baker, N. N., AbuAlrub, S., Obeidat, R. F., & Assmairan, K. (2021). Evidence-based practice beliefs and implementations: a cross-sectional study among undergraduate nursing students.
BMC nursing,
20, 1-8.
Adeyemi, C., Adegoke, B. O., & Odugbose, T. (2024). The impact of healthcare information technology on reducing medication errors: A review of recent advances.
international Journal of Frontiers in Medicine and Surgery Research [online],
5(2), 20-29.
Moore, Z. E., & Patton, D. (2019). Risk assessment tools for the prevention of pressure ulcers.
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (1).
