Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing

This chapter provides a comprehensive exploration of evidence-based practice (EBP) in nursing, emphasizing its critical role in enhancing healthcare quality and patient outcomes. It traces the evolution of EBP, originating from the foundational work of British epidemiologist Archie Cochrane, who advocated for the use of scientific evidence to guide healthcare decisions. The discussion highlights the integration of the best available evidence with clinical expertise and patient preferences as the cornerstone of EBP. Detailed attention is given to the structured framework of EBP, including the hierarchy of evidence, systematic appraisal of research, and steps for translating evidence into clinical practice. Various EBP models and frameworks, such as the Iowa and Johns Hopkins models, are reviewed, offering practical guidance for their implementation in diverse healthcare settings. This chapter also addresses the challenges in achieving consistent EBP application, underscoring the need for ongoing education, training, and strategies to bridge gaps in practice to advance nursing and healthcare.