Evidence-based practice (EBP) is a critical component of quality patient care that integrates the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values to make informed clinical decisions. While many bedside registered nurses are familiar with the EBP process, there is a need for expanded knowledge and training to enhance access to evidence-based resources and foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

This course is designed to teach EBP skills to enable nurses to conduct evaluations of existing literature and integrate practice changes aimed at improving and sustaining high-quality patient care. The course includes seven modules that cover essential competencies, starting with defining and describing EBP, understanding the spirit of inquiry, and moving clinical questions forward appropriately.

The course teaches learners how to describe clinical problems and formulate PICOT questions, which leads to an effective search for evidence. The learner will also recognize the need to engage in a systematic search for literature, understand the steps involved, and define resources that will help them complete a thorough search.

The course covers identifying sources of Advocate pre-appraised evidence, participating in the critical appraisal of published research studies to determine strength and applicability to practice, and evaluating and synthesizing a body of evidence gathered to determine strength and applicability to clinical practice.

The course also focuses on implementing changes to practice to improve patient outcomes and clinical processes while identifying tools to support the implementation of EBP. It teaches learners how to evaluate the outcomes of their EBP work and connect them to the chosen interventions.

Finally, the course helps learners determine the best way to disseminate EBP in their practice area. By embracing EBP, nurses can stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices, improve patient outcomes, and enhance the quality of care they provide. This course provides a comprehensive approach to EBP, enabling nurses to become more confident and proficient in implementing EBP in their practice.