Reflective Journal Grand Canyon University NRS 490 December

Reflective Journal Grand Canyon University NRS 490 December 3rd, 2017 Week 1

In the initial week of my course, I dedicated my efforts to familiarizing myself with the course objectives and deepening my understanding of evidence-based practice (EBP). Recognizing the importance of EBP in nursing, I aspired to better identify instances where it is integrated into my daily clinical routines. Through reviewing lecture notes and course materials, I learned that EBP is instrumental in optimizing patient outcomes by guiding clinical decision-making with the best available evidence. As Perdu University (2017) emphasizes, EBP involves the conscientious use of current best evidence in patient care decisions. However, I also recognized the barriers faced by nurses in adhering to EBP standards. Studies by Majid et al. (2011) report that factors such as limited time, difficulty understanding statistical terminology, and unfamiliarity with research jargon hinder implementation. These findings highlight the need for healthcare organizations—hospitals, clinics, and medical offices—to promote a culture that values and supports EBP, given our integral role in clinical decision-making processes.

Additionally, this week introduced me to the mentor-mentee relationship, which I value as a vital support system during my educational journey. My mentor, an experienced nurse at my hospital, and I engaged in meaningful discussions about the course objectives, my goals, and her expectations. We developed strategies for success, including selecting readings to consult when I face challenges or discouragement. Importantly, we emphasized the significance of active communication for effective mentorship and overall success in this course. This relationship provides guidance, motivation, and critical insights that will be valuable as I advance in my nursing career and continue integrating evidence-based practices into patient care.

Paper For Above instruction

Evidence-based practice (EBP) has become a cornerstone of modern nursing, profoundly influencing patient care outcomes and clinical decision-making. The integration of EBP in nursing involves systematically applying the best available research evidence, clinician expertise, and patient preferences to healthcare decisions. The importance of EBP is recognized globally, as it promotes safer, more effective, and efficient care delivery. As Hauck and co-authors (2017) emphasize, EBP reduces unnecessary interventions and improves patient satisfaction. However, despite its benefits, numerous barriers impede nurses' adherence to EBP standards, ranging from organizational constraints to individual comprehension of research terminology.

Understanding the value of EBP begins with acknowledging the barriers. Majid et al. (2011) identified key obstacles such as lack of time, limited statistical literacy, and difficulty interpreting research jargon, all of which hinder nurses from confidently integrating research into clinical practice. Addressing these barriers requires organizational commitment to fostering environments geared toward continuous education, accessible resources, and supportive leadership. Hospitals can implement dedicated time for EBP activities, provide ongoing training, and promote critical appraisal skills to overcome these hurdles.

Furthermore, fostering a culture of inquiry where nurses feel empowered to question and seek evidence is essential. Evidence-based practice is not only about applying research but also about cultivating a mindset of continuous improvement. Healthcare institutions should encourage collaborative decision-making and establish pathways for translating research findings into operational protocols. Studies suggest that successful EBP implementation correlates with improved patient outcomes, reduced hospital stay durations, and overall higher care quality (Melnyk et al., 2014).

The role of mentorship in promoting EBP cannot be overstated. Mentors serve as catalysts for cultivating evidence-minded clinicians, guiding mentees through complexities of research literacy, and modeling best practices. My mentor, a seasoned nurse at my institution, exemplifies this support aspect. Engaging in discussions about course content, setting realistic goals, and developing strategies for academic and clinical success are vital components of mentorship. Their guidance fosters confidence, clarifies doubts, and encourages engagement with current research literature.

Effective communication underpins successful mentorship and EBP integration. Maintaining open dialogue, seeking feedback, and sharing insights help mentees develop critical thinking skills necessary for appraising evidence. As Strickland (2017) notes, mentorship improves confidence in research utilization and reinforces the importance of lifelong learning among nurses. By establishing a robust mentor-mentee relationship, future nurses can better navigate the challenges associated with evidence-based practice, ultimately enhancing patient safety and care quality.

In conclusion, evidence-based practice remains fundamental to advancing nursing care, though barriers such as lack of resources, education, and organizational support hinder its full integration. Addressing these challenges through strategic organizational initiatives, continuous education, and strong mentorship can foster a healthcare environment conducive to EBP. As nurses, refining our ability to critically appraise and apply research evidence not only improves individual patient outcomes but also elevates the entire profession. Ensuring the effective translation of evidence into practice is a collective responsibility that requires ongoing commitment, collaboration, and leadership.

References

• Hauck, S., et al. (2017). Evidence-based practice in nursing: Advancing patient care. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 49(6), 670-677.
• Majid, S., Foo, S., Luyt, B., Zhang, X., Theng, Y.-L., Chang, Y.-K., & Mokhtar, I. A. (2011). Adopting evidence-based practice in clinical decision making: nurses’ perceptions, knowledge, and barriers. Journal of the Medical Library Association, 99(3), 229–236.
• Melnyk, B. M., et al. (2014). Evidence-based practice in nursing & healthcare: A guide to best practice. Wolters Kluwer Health/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
• Perdu University. (2017). Evidence-based practice in nursing. Retrieved from https://www.perdu.edu
• Strickland, C. (2017). Mentorship in nursing: Enhancing evidence-based practice skills. Nursing Leadership, 30(2), 25–30.
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