When executing a research project directed towards identifying evidence-based practice, a specific progression of steps is recommended

Question

While the steps may loop back to earlier steps as needed, please review the following steps and place them in the intended progression order:
1. Design practice change.
2. Assess the need for a change in practice.
3. Integrate and maintain change in practice.
4. Implement and evaluate the change.
5. Critically analyze the evidence.
6. Locate the best evidence.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 2,6,5,1,4,3
Rationale 1: In this step, the nurse determines what human, physical, and financial resources are needed to implement the change, how affected persons will be involved in the change process, and what methods will be used to document the change.
Rationale 2: In this step, the nurse identifies the source of data indicating that a change is called for, and determines which members of the healthcare team should be involved in the planned change.
Rationale 3: If the evaluation in step 5 indicates an improvement in outcomes, various activities might be needed to embed the change in practice for the future. Also, the change may be ‘rolled out,' meaning that it begins in one segment of the practice setting and then is spread to other appropriate segments.
Rationale 4: If appropriate, a small test of the change can be done prior to broader implementation. After the change has gone into effect, outcome data are gathered and analyzed, and conclusions are drawn regarding effectiveness and next steps.
Rationale 5: The strengths of each piece of evidence are examined, as are the feasibility of implementing a change in a particular practice setting or population. The nurse determines whether any risks are outweighed by potential benefits.
Rationale 6: In addition to locating research reports, the nurse also gathers evidence from practice guidelines, standards of care/standards of practice, and literature reviews.