Evidence Based Practice for Nursing

Evidence-based practice is "the conscientious, explicit and judicious use of current best evidence in making decisions about the care of the individual patient. It means integrating individual clinical expertise with the best available external clinical evidence from systematic research." 

• Sackett DL, Rosenberg WM, Gray JA, Haynes RB, Richardson WS. Evidence based medicine: what it is and what it isn't. BMJ. 1996;312(7023):71-72. 

What is Evidence Based Nursing and how is it different from Evidence Based Medicine?

Both evidence based medicine(EBM) and evidence based nursing (EBN) are forms of EBP. Nurses, however, aim to provide holistic care, treating and working with patients rather than working on them. EBN is patient centered, well informed, and comprehensive. 

The Basic Steps of EBP in Nursing:

1. Ask a clinical question
2. Acquire the evidence
3. Appraise the evidence
4. Apply the evidence
5. Evaluate the outcome

Need help searching for a project? Request a consult with me!

Click here to fill out the form. 

When filling out the request please describe your topic or need in as much detail as possible - A PICO formatted question is a great start. During our meeting we will discuss your project details, best databases to use, and how best to tackle your search. If you would like a demonstration of a database or searching tips - that's fine too! 

Please make sure to add several dates and times that you're available and know that we can meet virtually or in-person. Just let me know your preference! 

- Ori O'Malley, MLIS 

This guide is not an exhaustive resource on all things Evidence Based Nursing. This resource is to help you get started and cover the basics of EBP. If you would like to see a particular topic added to this guide - please contact the library. Thank you.