The process of translating research findings into nursing practice

Abstract

Action research studies are described which involved nurse teachers, ward sisters and nurse managers in the processes of: nursing practice problem identification and the search for relevant research literature; the evaluation and synthesis of the collected literature; the identification of the need to change practice and the translation of the research synthesis into practice if warranted. The processes engaged in by the groups in each of the three phases in relation to the management of mouth care and preoperative fasting are analysed. The findings suggest that the demands of these processes are beyond the capacity of any one individual nurse and require systematic organizational approaches such as that proposed by quality assurance programmes. The need is emphasized for as much status and resources to be expended on the utilization of existing information as is given to the generation of new knowledge.

Preparing for professional practice: How well does professional training equip health and social care practitioners to engage in evidence-based practice?

“…Clinical governance has been defined as 'A framework through which NHS organisations are accountable for continuously improving the quality of their services and safeguarding high standards of care by creating an environment in which excellence in clinical care will flourish' (DoH, 1998, p. 33). However, the difficulties in implementing evidence-based practice are well documented and several studies have highlighted the limited success of strategies employed to increase evidence utilization (Hunt, 1987;Hodnett et al, 1996;Hindley et al, 2000). The challenges inherent in implementing evidence-based practice are both complex and multi-factorial.…”

Child and adolescent psychiatric nursing and the ‘plastic man’: Reflections on the implementation of change drawing insights from Lewin’s theory of planned change

“…Of particular interest has been facilitating the uptake of research findings into practice (Funk, Champagne, Wiese, & Tornquist, 1991;Hunt, 1987;Tierney & Taylor, 1991). Natural sciences are recognised as a limited epistemological paradigm for the development of knowledge within nursing.…”

Students’ Experiences in Nursing Research and Evidence based Practice Course: A Qualitative Study

“…Hunt (1987) was the first author investigating this issue and mentioned that the explanations nurses most frequently indicated are a preference or greater ability for practical as opposed to intellectual work, and difficulties in implementing research findings in practice. While regarding to students' opinions many researchers tackled this topic.…”