Why is nursing theory important?

Background: Nursing theory should provide the principles that underpin practice and help generate more nursing knowledge. Providing a definition of nursing theory also helps nurses understand their purpose and role in the healthcare setting.

Why is theory important to nursing science and evidence-based care?

Nursing Theory in Practice Theories help guide evidence-based research that then leads to best practice and policy. Nursing theories also allow nurses to positively influence the health and well-being of their patients beyond caring for them at the bedside.

A theoretical perspective allows the nurse to plan and implement care purposefully and proactively. When nurses practice intentionally and systematically, they are more efficient, have better control over the outcomes of their care, and are more able to communicate with others.

Is evidence-based practice a nursing theory?

Evidence-based nursing is a form of nursing that is based on evidence-based medicine, also called evidence-based practice. Evidence-based medicine provides health care to patients by applying the best available evidence of the scientific method to make clinical decisions.

What is the difference between nursing research theory and evidence-based practice?

The research applies a methodology (quantitative or qualitative) to develop new knowledge. EBP seeks and applies the best clinical evidence, often from research, to make decisions about patient care. QI uses systematic processes to improve patient outcomes.

What is evidence-based nursing practice?

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is the process of collecting, processing, and implementing research findings to improve clinical practice, the work environment, or patient outcomes. Using the EBP approach to nursing practice helps us deliver the highest quality and most cost-effective patient care possible.

What are the different levels of evidence?

Levels of evidence

The most frequent organizational barriers to EBP implementation were lack of human resources (nurse shortage), lack of Internet access at work, heavy workload, and lack of access to a rich library of nursing journals.

What type of evidence source is at the top of most evidence hierarchies?

Systematic reviews are at the top of the hierarchy (Level I), because the strongest evidence comes from careful synthesis of multiple studies. The next highest level (Level II) includes individual randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Where are nurses most likely to find research evidence?

Nurses are more likely to find research evidence in journals or at professional conferences or poster sessions. Research journal articles are descriptions of studies published in professional journals.

What is a problem-focused trigger?

Problem-focused triggers are those problems that arise from risk management data, financial data, or the identification of a clinical problem (eg, patient falls). Knowledge-focused triggers are those that occur when new research results are presented or when new practice guidelines are justified.