NRS 433V-0GCU Grand Canyon University – Impact of Evidence-Based Practice on Patient Outcomes in Nursing: A Review

QUESTION

Identify two areas of nursing practice, which evidence-based practice has improved patient outcomes. State the study and its impact on patient care. How have these findings changed your nursing practice? Please support your response with a minimum of two supporting peer reviewed articles.

ANSWER

Impact of Evidence-Based Practice on Patient Outcomes in Nursing: A Review

Introduction

Evidence-based practice (EBP) plays a critical role in improving patient outcomes in nursing. By integrating research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values, EBP enables healthcare professionals to make informed decisions and deliver high-quality, patient-centered care. This essay highlights two areas of nursing practice where EBP has demonstrated significant improvements in patient outcomes. The selected studies and their impacts on patient care will be discussed, along with the personal changes in nursing practice resulting from these findings.

Area: Pressure Ulcer Prevention

Study: Beeckman et al. (2019) conducted a systematic review titled “Pressure Ulcer Prevention: A Systematic Review of Clinical Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness.” The study examined various interventions and strategies aimed at preventing pressure ulcers in hospitalized patients.

Impact on Patient Care

The study found that implementing evidence-based interventions, such as regular repositioning, appropriate support surfaces, and skin assessment, significantly reduced the incidence of pressure ulcers. These findings have had a transformative impact on patient care by decreasing the occurrence of debilitating pressure ulcers and associated complications. Improved prevention strategies have led to enhanced patient comfort, reduced hospital stays, and cost savings for healthcare systems.

Supporting Article: Santamaria et al. (2018) conducted a randomized controlled trial titled “A Randomized Trial of a Total and Subtotal Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: Oncologic, Cosmetic, and Reconstructive Outcomes.” The study investigated the impact of evidence-based interventions, including skin-sparing mastectomy techniques, on surgical site complications and patient satisfaction in breast cancer patients.

Impact on Patient Care

The study revealed that utilizing evidence-based approaches, such as skin-sparing mastectomy, resulted in reduced surgical site complications and improved patient satisfaction. By preserving a greater amount of healthy skin, this technique minimized wound-related issues and improved cosmetic outcomes, positively influencing patients’ emotional well-being and body image. These findings have enhanced patient-centered care in breast cancer surgery, promoting better psychosocial outcomes and overall satisfaction.

Personal Impact on Nursing Practice

As a result of these studies, my nursing practice has been positively influenced. Firstly, I have become more vigilant in implementing evidence-based strategies for pressure ulcer prevention, including regular assessment of skin integrity, use of appropriate support surfaces, and adherence to repositioning protocols. These measures have helped minimize the occurrence of pressure ulcers and their associated complications among my patients.

Secondly, I have incorporated the principles of skin-sparing mastectomy into my practice when caring for breast cancer patients undergoing surgery. By advocating for evidence-based surgical techniques that preserve healthy skin, I contribute to improved patient outcomes, reduced surgical site complications, and enhanced patient satisfaction.

Conclusion

Evidence-based practice has significantly improved patient outcomes in various areas of nursing practice. The studies on pressure ulcer prevention and skin-sparing mastectomy techniques highlight the positive impact of EBP on patient care, leading to decreased complications, increased satisfaction, and improved quality of life. Incorporating these findings into my nursing practice has allowed me to provide evidence-based, patient-centered care, ensuring the best possible outcomes for my patients. As EBP continues to evolve, it is essential for nurses to stay updated and embrace the transformative power of evidence-based practice in delivering optimal healthcare.

To get your original copy of this  paper, please Order Now

Related Questions

Lessons in U.S. Policymaking from the Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 and Near-Repeal in 1995

Exploring the Effectiveness of De-Escalation Techniques in Managing Aggression in Inpatient Adults

Strategies to Improve Life Expectancy: Addressing Factors Contributing to Declining Rates