A practical communication strategy to improve implementation of evidence-based practice

Lee A. Diedrick, Childrens Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota
Marjorie A. Schaffer, Bethel University
Kristin E. Sandau, Bethel University

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:: The purpose of this study was to determine if a consistent communication strategy for implementation of evidence-based practice (EBP), developed with input from staff nurses, improved staff nurse satisfaction with communication of practice changes. BACKGROUND:: Integration of EBP knowledge into clinical practice supports optimal nursing care. Awareness of a practice change and the ability to reference the information may be problematic. METHODS:: A quasi-experimental single group before-after design was used to survey all RNs of a level III neonatal ICU for satisfaction before and after implementation of the EBP communication strategy. RESULTS:: Registered nurse satisfaction improved regarding the amount of communication (P < .001), frequency of communication (P < .014), method of communication (P < .001), and ease of finding information (P < .001). CONCLUSION:: A consistent strategy can improve nurse satisfaction with communication of EBP changes. Copyright © 2011 Wolters Kluwer Health | Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.