Online Course
NRSG 790 - Methods for Research and Evidence-Based Practice
Module 1: Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice
Sources of Evidence
How much evidence do we need, and what type of evidence do we need to change practice? While no formula exists for all situations – the answer lies in clinician judgement, based on the level and qualityof evidence from research, patients and clinicians.
Research – empirical evidence
Patients – preferences, values, priorities
Clinicians – provider judgment and reasoning
Context – the setting of healthcare delivery
Consider this practice problem/change
High level and quality research demonstrate that hyperbaric oxygen therapy improves wound healing outcomes for diabetic patients with foot ulcers.
- Patients desire and value wound healing and avoiding amputation, although the cost of and travel to a hyperbaric center is prohibitive.
- Clinicians embrace the role of this therapy to heal wounds and retain limbs to enable performance of ADLs and promote quality of life.
- Health care facilities seek to provide full service care for diabetics and prevent disease and disability. The expertise, equipment, and resources needed to provide this level of service is a major consideration.
Would you recommend and plan a practice change? Why or why not?
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