implement skills consistently.”
implement skills consistently.”
Evidence based nursing practice is important to be incorporated in order to provide quality patient care. These practices have been studied and researched with the intent to standardize and improve health care. Nurses prepared at a baccalaureate level are expected to be more familiar with current evidenced based practice since evidence based practice is part of the curriculum. The BSN is able to apply the evidence-based practice into their care thus resulting in quality patient care and positive patient outcomes. Two barriers include the nurse’s level of education, and senior nurses not willing to change. The ADN degree focuses more on clinical knowledge and skills whereas the BSN in addition incorporates evidence based practices and focuses on holistic patient care. With continuing education, nurses would be provided with the tools they need to deliver current evidence based care. Applying EBP to the bedside has been proven to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. According to Melnyk (2016), “A good place to start is by improving the level of education of nurses and investing funds in continuing programs and evidenced-based practice mentors to equip them with the skills needed to consistently deliver evidence-based care.” Another barrier may include nurses of seniority “seasoned nurses” not wanting to change and adapt to the current evidence based practices. For example, the nurse with twenty years experience may not have learned to use the EBP approach and want to stick to their old ways because it is easier for them. This type of behavior may be difficult to change. Wallis (2012), stated that “In order to make a change happen the nurse leaders should place enough EBP mentors at the bedside who can work hand in hand with clinicians to help them learn and implement skills consistently.” Positive encouragement and consistency may be key in creating change with experienced nurses. All nurses should share the same goal of providing the best quality patient care.
