9. Embedding a culture of evidence based practice among undergraduate nurses through research education (34)
Threese Leufer, Dublin University, Dublin, Ireland
Co author: Joanne Cleary Holdforth
therese.leufer@dcu.ie
Abstract:
Background:
In order to deliver clinically effective healthcare, it is essential to engender a culture of evidence-based practice (EBP) among healthcare practitioners. In so doing, the potential to deliver improved patient outcomes can be realised. EBP clearly has implications for nurse education and in particular the way in which research is presented and delivered to students. With this in mind, two undergraduate research modules were amalgamated and modified to embed a culture of EBP. A study aimed at evaluating this approach was undertaken simultaneously. This paper will discuss the process undertaken and findings of this study.
Aims:
• To foster a culture of evidence-based practice at undergraduate level
• To ascertain the attitudes and beliefs, knowledge level and utilization of EBP of undergraduate student nurses
Methods:
The study design was descriptive exploratory using non-probability convenience sampling. Data collection took place in December 2006 and involved the distribution of two separate questionnaires (EBP Beliefs Scale© and EBP Implementation Scale©). The sampling frame was a total of 217 students currently pursuing degree level studies in nursing. A response rate of 66% was achieved.
Results:
Among other findings, it was demonstrated that participants strongly agreed that EBP results in the best clinical care for patients. However, when asked whether they believed that their care was evidence-based their responses tended to cluster around the neutral value on the scale, reflecting findings in the EBPI scale that suggest that EBP implementation requires significant attention.
Discussion & conclusions:
Results from this study reinforce the current evidence that advocates the integration of EBP into nursing curricula. This innovative approach to the teaching and learning of research methodology, not only has the potential to engender a culture of EBP among students, but more importantly, offers the very real possibility of improving patient outcomes in practice for future generations.
Source of Funding: N/A
Amount in Funding: N/A
Biography:
I currently work as a lecturer in the School of Nursing, Dublin City University. Prior to assimilating into the higher education sector in 2002 from Beaumont Hospital School of Nursing, I was employed in the U.K. in both Clinical and Educational roles. My clinical nursing background is neuro-intensive care nursing having worked in hospitals in the London area for 10years. In 1998-1999 I undertook a Post Graduate Diploma in Higher Education at University of Greenwich completing my Masters in Higher Education in 2002. Particular areas of research interest include psychological aspects of teaching and learning, learning experiences of students in a large class environment and promoting and enhancing an evidence base for practice within a classroom context. I recently undertook an intensive EBP Mentorship Immersion Programme at the Centre for the Advancement of Evidence-Based Practice at Arizona State University. I am currently undertaking a Doctorate in Education degree at University of Bristol and hope to explore aspects of evidence-based practice in educational settings for my final thesis. Biographical Details: Joanne Cleary-Holdforth I am currently employed as a lecturer in the School of Nursing at Dublin City University since 2002, before which I worked as an Acting Tutor in the School of Nursing at Beaumont Hospital. My clinical speciality is Renal Nursing. I worked in a haemodialysis unit in New Jersey for two years prior to returning to Ireland in 1996 and commencing employment in the Renal Unit of Beaumont Hospital where I held both clinical and educational roles until 2001. I undertook both my BSc (1998 – 2000) and MSc in Nursing (2000 – 2002) at the RCSI. Last year I completed a Post Graduate Certificate in Third Level Learning and Teaching and have recently completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Third Level Learning and Teaching. I undertook an intensive EBP Mentorship Immersion Programme at the Centre for the Advancement of Evidence-Based Practice at Arizona State University in June 2006. This is an area that I intend to pursue in future doctoral studies. My areas of interest include evidence based practice, quality of life, all aspects of renal nursing and enhancing the learning experience for students both in the classroom and in the clinical setting.