Equipping Nurses to Lead Evidence-Based Practice

Abstract

The aim of this study was to describe the evidence-based practice (EBP) attributes among California nurse leaders who are members of a professional nursing organization. BACKGROUND: Nurse leaders are pivotal for successful EBP implementation. The Association of California Nurse Leaders' (ACNL) mission to equip nurses to lead self, others, and systems propelled them to conduct a study of members' EBP beliefs, knowledge, competencies, and implementation. METHODS: Evidence-based practice attributes of California nurse leaders were measured using valid and reliable scales via an anonymous, electronic survey. RESULTS: Although ahead in the subjective EBP scales, California nurse leaders' perceptions of organizational EBP culture were comparable with those of a similar national sample. Scores still indicated opportunities for improvement.

Evidence-Based Practice Implementation

“…Magnet designation moved organizations toward nursing excellence by supporting organizational EBP implementation as a scholarly activity, as well as a core requirement for designation 16 . In a precursor to this qualitative study, investigators conducted a quantitative study aimed at describing EBP attributes among Association of California Nurse Leaders (ACNL) members, representing multiple organizations throughout California (CA) 17 . This study found that CA NLs scored higher on all aspects of EBP beliefs, knowledge, and competencies scales compared with a national sample yet were challenged in advancing cultures that embrace EBP 17 .…”

“…In a precursor to this qualitative study, investigators conducted a quantitative study aimed at describing EBP attributes among Association of California Nurse Leaders (ACNL) members, representing multiple organizations throughout California (CA) 17 . This study found that CA NLs scored higher on all aspects of EBP beliefs, knowledge, and competencies scales compared with a national sample yet were challenged in advancing cultures that embrace EBP 17 . To achieve higher quality and safe cost-effective care, study findings indicated that NLs need to invest in providing resources to support an EBP culture 14,17 …”

Professional nursing organizations

“…PNOs provide nurses with service opportunities on committees, workgroups, and boards. Recognizing that leadership growth is essential for nurses, many PNOs offer specific programs targeting leadership competency development, which augments experiences in traditional practice environments 1-3,5…”

“…Recognizing that leadership growth is essential for nurses, many PNOs offer specific programs targeting leadership competency development, which augments experiences in traditional practice environments. [1][2][3]5 • Policy and advocacy. PNOs help nurses strengthen their policy acumen by organizing visits with policy makers at the local, state, and national levels.…”

“…PNOs may offer continuing education, conferences, and/or publications for professional development, all of which provide the most recent evidence for practice. [1][2][3][4] PNOs also support specialty certification with resources to demonstrate nursing expertise extending beyond initial licensure. • Leadership.…”