Implementing a novel programme for nurses and allied health professionals to develop capacity for evidence-informed clinical practice

Abstract

Background: Nurses and allied health professionals (AHPs) require skills and support to access, appraise, interpret and use research evidence in clinical practice. We describe the process of designing and implementing the Evidence in Practice (EiP) programme at a UK hospital. Methods: Key stakeholders were engaged to identify learning needs and priorities in appraising and implementing research evidence. To address these, we designed a multi-strategy bespoke programme of activities. Results: The programme comprised the development of (a) a visual summary of a research paper, (b) five skills development masterclasses and (c) a six-month mentoring scheme to develop and implement plans for translating evidence into practice. Discussion: The programme overcame many of the traditional barriers (lack of access, skills and time) to increase engagement of nurses and AHP staff in accessing, reviewing and using evidence in clinical practice. Conclusion: With clinical leadership support, it is feasible to use a multi-strategy approach to promote and enable nurses and AHPs to use evidence in clinical practice.