In healthcare, providing the highest quality of care and administering the most effective treatments is the main objective. To do so, evidence-based practice is used in many settings. In the Practical Nursing Program offered in Pennsylvania and New Jersey by Prism Career Institute, nursing students gain a well-rounded education before entering the field. Here, we touch upon what every nursing student should know about evidence-based practice.
What Is Evidence-Based Practice?
Using the most current research available, evidence-based practice is a well-known method in the healthcare industry. The process involves collecting, evaluating, and implementing proven research to optimize clinical settings and patient outcomes. Healthcare professionals use problem-solving techniques and combine them with the best practices from the most recent medical studies and clinical experiences – all while taking into consideration the preferences of patients and their values.
The Benefits for Nurses
Healthcare organizations as a whole benefit from evidence-based practice as it helps minimize the resources and inventory used on ineffective or outdated protocols. This can reduce overall spending, allowing for more funds to be allocated toward more useful clinical resources. However, the advantages of this approach go far beyond mitigating excess costs, helping both nurses and patients. Benefits of evidence-based practice include:
Providing Nurses with the Appropriate Knowledge
Evidence-based practice provides nurses with the knowledge to make informed decisions regarding patient care. Nurses are empowered to contribute to this method by having the necessary tools to apply tested medical treatments instead of unproven methods.
Improving Overall Care for Patients
Evidence-based practice incorporates scientific evidence and proven medical practices to create the most effective healthcare strategies. This can help improve the overall care each patient receives and, in turn, the outcome.
Assisting Nurses in Providing Transparency
With the help of evidence-based practice, nurses have a trusted source to explain to patients the reasoning behind certain approaches to their treatment. This allows nurses to improve their relationship with patients, ensure treatments are fully understood, and increase overall patient satisfaction.
Challenges Many Nurses Face
It’s important to remember that while many healthcare organizations implement this approach, evidence-based practice may not be used everywhere. Reasons for this may include:
- Lack of understanding what evidence-based practice is and why it’s important
- Little support from the administration
- Lack of resources to allow this approach to be implemented
- Particular regulations already put in place within a healthcare organization
Nurses should be aware of these potential setbacks before implementing this practice in a facility.
Learn Best Practices at Prism Career Institute
To provide the best care possible, nurses need to learn the most effective medical practices available. Nursing students can receive a comprehensive education through the Practical Nursing Program offered by Prism Career Institute. Our facilities in Philadelphia, PA, and Cherry Hill and West Atlantic City townships, NJ, provide the necessary knowledge and experience to help students embark on a rewarding career path in the healthcare industry. For more information on admissions for our program, contact Prism Career Institute today.