Research Evidence Practice In Nursing Milena Hernandez Miami

Research Evidence Practice in Nursing Milena Hernandez Miami Regional University

Based on the existing relationship between theory, research, and evidence-based practice (EBP), it is understood that theory represents knowledge generated through systematic research, arriving at explanations for the relationships between concepts (Smith, 2018). Research serves as a foundation for developing and refining theories by systematically investigating hypotheses and questions, thus creating a reciprocal relationship where research informs theory and vice versa.

Similarly, EBP is a process that integrates the best scientific evidence, clinical expertise, and patient preferences to guide healthcare decisions and improve patient outcomes (Tomlinson et al., 2018). Although research provides evidence, EBP extends beyond this by incorporating clinical skills and patient values, emphasizing the translation of research findings into practical clinical interventions aimed at holistic patient care.

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The relationship between theory, research, and evidence-based practice (EBP) is a cornerstone of modern nursing, shaping how care is delivered and emphasizing an integrated approach to healthcare. Understanding how these components interrelate is fundamental for clinicians and researchers seeking to improve patient outcomes through scientific inquiry and practical application.

Research provides the systematic investigation necessary to generate knowledge and develop theories that explain phenomena within healthcare. For instance, in the context of diabetes management, research exploring patients' motivations and behaviors contributes valuable insights into how individuals adapt to diagnoses and manage chronic conditions. Smith (2018) emphasizes that theories are essentially statements describing the relationships between concepts derived from such research, allowing practitioners to understand underlying mechanisms and design appropriate interventions.

In clinical practice, evidence-based practice (EBP) translates research findings into actionable strategies that enhance care quality. EBP incorporates scientific evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values—recognized as vital to personalized care. Tomlinson et al. (2018) highlight that while research underpins EBP, the latter also involves clinical judgment and consideration of patient preferences, ensuring that interventions are contextually appropriate and acceptable to patients.

To illustrate the application of research and theory within EBP, consider two studies. The first, by Sebire et al. (2018), investigates motivational factors influencing lifestyle changes among newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients. Utilizing qualitative interviews with 30 participants, the study aims to elucidate how motivation impacts adherence to health recommendations. The study’s findings reveal that patients experience varying qualities of motivation over time, with controlled motivation often dominating initial phases, characterized by external pressures and internal frustrations. This insight underscores the importance of tailored motivational strategies in clinical interventions, aligning with the theory that behavior change is a process influenced by internal and external factors.

The second study, by Liang et al. (2017), conducts a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess whether diabetic patients undergoing surgery are at higher risk for bedsores (pressure ulcers). Analyzing data from 16 studies encompassing over 24,000 individuals, the research establishes that diabetic patients, especially those undergoing specific types of surgery such as cardiac and hip procedures, are at increased risk for pressure ulcers. The findings are founded on robust data collection and rigorous analysis, exemplifying how research evidence can identify high-risk populations and inform preventive strategies in clinical settings.

Both studies exemplify how research informs clinical practice through evidence-based strategies. Sebire et al.'s findings suggest that promoting autonomous motivation—encouraging internal motivation over external prompts—can enhance adherence to lifestyle changes, thereby reducing diabetes-related complications. This aligns with behavior change theories such as Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 2000), which emphasizes the importance of autonomous motivation for sustained behavior change.

Meanwhile, Liang et al.’s systematic review emphasizes that awareness of the elevated risk of pressure ulcers in diabetic surgical patients should prompt healthcare providers to implement targeted preventive measures. These measures include frequent repositioning, nutritional support, and advanced wound dressings, all of which are supported by current clinical guidelines (Rowe et al., 2018). The integration of research evidence into practice reflects a core principle of EBP—using high-quality evidence to guide specific interventions for improved patient safety and outcomes.

Implementing these findings into clinical practice involves training nurses and surgical teams to recognize high-risk patients and to employ evidence-based interventions promptly. For example, refraining from prolonged pressure on vulnerable tissues, maintaining optimal nutritional status, and using appropriate dressings can significantly reduce the incidence of bedsores. This proactive approach demonstrates how research-backed interventions can improve healthcare quality and patient satisfaction.

Furthermore, the importance of patient-centered care is emphasized in Sebire et al.’s research, highlighting that understanding individual motivation and addressing psychological barriers are essential for effective lifestyle modifications. Engaging patients in shared decision-making and personalizing motivational strategies can lead to better adherence and long-term health benefits, aligning with principles of patient-centered care models (Coulter & Oldham, 2016).

In conclusion, the relationship between theory, research, and EBP is vital for advancing nursing practice. Research provides the evidence necessary to develop theories that explain clinical phenomena, which in turn inform the creation of effective interventions. Integrating these components ensures that nursing care is not only scientifically sound but also tailored to meet individual patient needs, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and optimal resource utilization. Continuous research and theory refinement are essential to keep pace with evolving healthcare challenges and to ensure that evidence-based interventions remain relevant and effective.

References

• Coulter, A., & Oldham, J. (2016). Person-centred care: What is it and how do we get it? Future Hospital Journal, 3(2), 114-116.
• Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The "what" and "why" of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227-268.
• Liang, M., Chen, Q., Zhang, Y., He, L., Wang, J., Cai, Y., & Li, L. (2017). Impact of diabetes on the risk of bedsores in patients undergoing surgery: an updated quantitative analysis of cohort studies. Oncotarget, 8(9), 14516-14525.
• Rowe, A. D., McCarty, K., & Huett, A. (2018). Implementation of a nurse-driven pathway to reduce the incidence of hospital-acquired pressure injuries in the pediatric intensive care setting. Journal of Pediatric Nursing, 41, 1-8.
• Smith, L. (2018). The Relationship Among Theory, Research, and Practice: Philosophies, Theories, Models, and Taxonomies. Nursing Science Quarterly, 31(4), 344-351.
• Sebire, S. J., Toumpakari, Z., Turner, K. M., Cooper, A. R., Page, A. S., Malpass, A., & Andrews, R. C. (2018). “I’ve made this my lifestyle now”: a prospective qualitative study of motivation for lifestyle change among people with newly diagnosed type two diabetes mellitus. BMC Public Health, 18, 204.
• Tomlinson, J., Baird, M., Berg, P., & Cooper, R. (2018). Flexible careers across the life course: Advancing theory, research, and practice. Human Relations, 71(1), 4-22.
• Additional references can be added here as needed, following proper APA citation formatting.