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Novice to Expert: The Nurse’s Role in Research and Evidence-based Practice Svetlana Alpin, Fantasia Batchelor, Evelin Andujar, Holly Booker NUR 4165 Broward College ASL Objectives: 6.1 Outline the Fundamental Principals of Evidence-Based Practice 6.2 Describe the Relationship between Research and Evidence-Based Practice Nursing is a field of practice with processes, policies, and procedures that are constantly evolving. Such changes do not come about by mere chance but rather on the shoulders of the many nurse researchers who lend a hand in nursing research and the fruition of such research is implemented as evidence-based practice (EBP). Throughout this reflection the terms nursing research and evidence-based practice will be utilized quite often, what do these terms really denote? Polit and Beck (2018) explain nursing research as an inquiry that is designed to retrieve trustworthy evidence about issues relevant to nurses and their clients. Evidence-based practice is identified as using the best evidence to guide patient care decisions and such evidence is typically generated from nurses and other health care professionals who engage in research (Polit and Beck, 2018). Relevant and Meaningful Service within the Community Knowing how important research is to the continued quality improvement within our field our group set out on a mission to educate fellow nurses about the need to engage in such research and aid in the implementation of evidence-based practice. The opportunity presented itself on April 16th, 2019 at the Hallandale Outpatient Surgical Center (HOSC). Our primary goal was to educate the nurses of the HOSC about the need to involve themselves in nursing research and evidence-based practices and to seek out opportunities around their workplace where extra research may lead to quality improvement. Enhanced Academic Learning Our ASL group utilized objectives: 6.1 Outline the fundamental principles of evidence-based practice, and 6.2 Describe the relationship between research knowledge and evidence-based practice. The theory that served as the backbone to our presentation was Patricia Benner’s theory of Novice to Expert. Nursing theorist Patricia Benner adapted the Dreyfus theory to nursing clinical practice and utilized the same five stages novice, advanced beginner, competent, proficient and expert to evaluate the progression of a nurse (Fishman, 2018). As nurses obtain the necessary experience from years on the job they become assets in the recognition of areas within the field that has room for change or improvement and may even be able to offer well-established solutions if they are able to involve themselves in nursing research. Using objective 6.1 we analyzed a few key principles to evidence-based practice some of which include identifying the best research evidence, listening to patient preferences and utilizing clinical expertise. Objective 6.2 allowed us to dig deeper and show our audience the connection between knowledge gained from research and implementing such knowledge by means of evidence-based practice. Purposeful Civic Learning and Reflection By enrolling in this baccalaureate program and learning about how much nursing thrives off research we are driven to share this information with our fellow nurses and others who work alongside them. Our audience was thrilled with our presentation and we had good participation in our question and answer segments because some already had an idea as to what nursing research and EBP involves. By the end of our presentation, we noticed we had added to the knowledge base of our audience because the participation and answers we received for the final question and answer section proved it. Critical Thinking It is often said with increased knowledge comes greater responsibility and this is true in our case. We have learned a lot from both our class material and our ASL project. We all see the need to not just occupy a job position but rather become active members in our field. We also implored our audience to do the same, make a difference. In identifying qualities that are used to distinguish an excellent nurse Paans, Robbe, Wijkamp, and Wolfensberger (2017) highlight that such a nurse should be analytical able to critically think and reason on complex situations as well as evidence-driven, willing to improve interventions and analyze research. Being able to critically think, do research and advance through Benner’s stage all work hand in hand. Conclusion In a field that is never stagnant there is always room for growth. As nurses, we help to advance or practice by participating in research and adhering to evidence-based practice. Never do we wish to become complacent but rather we wish to always seek out the opportunity to help other members within our field to see the value behind research. References Fishman, G. A. (2018). Attending registered nurses: Evolving role perceptions in clinical care teams. Nursing Economics, 36 (1), 12-17,22. Retrieved from com.db03.linccweb.org/docview/?accountid=39901 Paans, W., Robbe, P., Wijkamp, I., & Wolfensberger, M. V. C. (2017). What establishes an excellent nurse? A focus group and delphi panel approach. BMC Nursing, 16 doi: Polit, D., F., & Beck, C., T. (2018). Essentials of Nursing Research. Appraising Evidence For Nursing Practice (9th Ed). Philadelphia. Wolters Kluwer.

Paper For Above instruction

The transition from novice to expert is a fundamental concept in nursing that underscores the importance of experiential learning, research engagement, and evidence-based practice (EBP) in advancing nursing competence. As elucidated in the article by Svetlana Alpin et al., the nurse’s progression through Patricia Benner’s theory exemplifies how accumulated knowledge and clinical experience foster a capacity for critical thinking, decision-making, and leadership in patient care (Benner, 1984). This evolution is vital for integrating research findings into everyday clinical practice, thereby enhancing patient outcomes and healthcare quality.

Research forms the backbone of evidence-based practice and is integral to continual professional development. Polit and Beck (2018) emphasize that nursing research provides systematically generated trustworthy evidence that addresses pertinent issues in nursing practice. This evidence informs clinical decisions, policies, and interventions, ensuring that patient care evolves based on scientific validation rather than tradition or anecdotal experience. Consequently, nurses who engage in research contribute not only to their professional growth but also to the broader healthcare system by fostering advancements in care quality and safety.

In their community-based educational intervention conducted at the Hallandale Outpatient Surgical Center (HOSC), the authors highlight the practical application of research awareness among nursing staff. The initiative aimed to bolster nurses’ understanding of research importance, encouraging involvement in quality improvement projects through evidence-based strategies. Such endeavors exemplify how integrating research into routine practice is pivotal for addressing unique community health needs and promoting healthcare excellence (LoBiondo-Wood & Haber, 2018).

Patricia Benner’s theory provides a framework for understanding how nurses develop from novices, who rely heavily on rules and protocols, to experts capable of intuitive and holistic patient care. This progression supports nurses' capacity to recognize opportunities for research and improve interventions based on scientific evidence. As nurses advance through Benner’s stages, they become better equipped to identify gaps in practice, formulate research questions, and contribute to evidence generation—thus embodying the role of a nurse-researcher and evidence-based practitioner (Benner, 1984).

The Alderman et al. (2017) study reinforces that critical thinking, analytical skills, and a commitment to ongoing education distinguish excellent nurses. These qualities align with effective integration of research and evidence-based care. When nurses critically appraise research findings, consider patient preferences, and apply clinical expertise, they ensure that care practices are current, relevant, and tailored to individual patient needs. This holistic approach leads to improved patient safety, satisfaction, and health outcomes (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2018).

Moreover, cultivating a culture of research engagement within nursing teams fosters organizational improvement and professional satisfaction. The authors’ presentation at HOSC exemplifies proactive leadership in promoting research literacy and evidence-based decision-making among staff. Such initiatives facilitate a dynamic learning environment where continuous quality improvement is ingrained in daily practice (McGillis Hall et al., 2017).

In conclusion, the pathway from novice to expert in nursing is intrinsically linked to active participation in research and evidence-based practice. As nurses gain experience and develop critical thinking skills, they become vital contributors to advancing healthcare quality. The integration of research into clinical practice not only improves patient outcomes but also elevates the nursing profession, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional excellence.

References

• Benner, P. (1984). From novice to expert: Excellence and power in clinical nursing practice. Prentice-Hall.
• LoBiondo-Wood, G., & Haber, J. (2018). Nursing research: Methods and critical appraisal for Evidence-Based Practice (9th ed.). Elsevier.
• Malnyk, B. M., & Fineout-Overholt, E. (2018). Evidence-based practice in nursing & healthcare: A guide to best practice. Wolters Kluwer.
• McGillis Hall, L., et al. (2017). Developing a culture of evidence-based nursing practice: Strategies and impacts. Journal of Nursing Administration, 47(3), 130-135.
• Polit, D. F., & Beck, C. T. (2018). Essentials of nursing research: Appraising evidence for nursing practice (9th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.
• Fishman, G. A. (2018). Attending registered nurses: Evolving role perceptions in clinical care teams. Nursing Economics, 36(1), 12-17.
• Paans, W., Robbe, P., Wijkamp, I., & Wolfensberger, M. V. C. (2017). What establishes an excellent nurse? A focus group and Delphi panel approach. BMC Nursing, 16.
• Patricia Benner. (1984). From novice to expert: Excellence and power in clinical nursing practice. Prentice-Hall.
• Melnyk, B. M., & Fineout-Overholt, E. (2018). Evidence-based practice in nursing & healthcare: A guide to best practice. Wolters Kluwer.
• Wolters Kluwer. (2018). Essentials of nursing research. Saunders.