Barriers to Achieving Evidence-Based Nursing Practice and Potential Solutions

QUESTION

The Institute of Medicine has stated a goal that 90% of practice be evidence-based by 2020. According to HealthyPeople.gov, the United States is currently at approximately 15%. Discuss two barriers that might hold nursing practice from achieving this goal and suggest ways in which identified barriers may be addressed.

ANSWER

Barriers to Achieving Evidence-Based Nursing Practice and Potential Solutions

Introduction

The Institute of Medicine’s goal of having 90% of nursing practice be evidence-based by 2020 is a critical objective aimed at improving patient care, safety, and outcomes. However, the United States currently falls significantly short of this target, with only about 15% of practice being evidence-based. This essay explores two primary barriers to achieving this goal and suggests potential solutions to address these impediments.

Barriers to Achieving Evidence-Based Nursing Practice

1. Lack of Access to Current Evidence

Barrier Description: Many healthcare institutions face challenges in providing nurses with timely access to current evidence-based research and guidelines. Nurses may not have access to up-to-date databases, journals, or resources necessary for evidence-based practice.

Impact: Without access to current evidence, nurses may rely on outdated information or traditions in their practice. This can lead to suboptimal patient care and hinder the integration of new research findings.

2. Resistance to Change and Tradition

Barrier Description: Healthcare systems often have deeply ingrained practices and cultures that resist change. Some nurses may be resistant to adopting new evidence-based practices, as they may have been accustomed to traditional methods for years.

Impact: Resistance to change can impede the implementation of evidence-based practices. When nurses are reluctant to adapt, it can hinder the incorporation of new knowledge and research into daily routines, limiting the potential for improved patient outcomes.

Solutions to Address Barriers

1. Improving Access to Evidence

Solution: Healthcare institutions should invest in providing nurses with easy access to up-to-date evidence-based resources. This includes subscriptions to online databases, access to nursing journals, and resources such as clinical practice guidelines.

Benefits: Improved access to evidence ensures that nurses can stay informed about the latest research findings and guidelines, enabling them to make informed decisions in their practice.

2. Promoting a Culture of Innovation and Learning

Solution: Healthcare organizations should foster a culture that encourages continuous learning and innovation. This can be achieved through ongoing education, training, and opportunities for nurses to engage in evidence-based projects and research.

Benefits: Creating an environment that values evidence-based practice and supports nurses in adopting new approaches can lead to increased openness to change and a greater willingness to integrate evidence into daily care.

Conclusion

Achieving the Institute of Medicine’s goal of 90% evidence-based nursing practice by 2020 is essential for improving patient care and outcomes. However, barriers such as limited access to current evidence and resistance to change pose significant challenges. By addressing these barriers through improved access to evidence and fostering a culture of innovation and learning, nursing practice can move closer to this critical goal, ultimately enhancing the quality and safety of patient care.