Evidence-based practice in a hospital setting in Finland – the organization and activities

Abstract

Background: Evidence-based practice (EBP) is a major paradigm of health care and policy worldwide. In nursing, the transformation has not been very fast due to the challenges in closing the gap between clinical practice and research; this is the case in Finland, too. There is evidence gained from many research studies in nursing that major factors affecting EBP include lack of knowledge and skills, as well as lack of organization or understanding how to support nurses in EBP. Objective: The aim of this presentation is to describe the development of EBP in nursing; how it has been organized and what the activities are organized and followed as suggested in Magnet Hospitals. Methods: Discussion paper based on an example from one of the five university hospital with 800 beds in Finland. Results: EBP in nursing was organized following Magnet Hospital system in an university hospital with 800 beds. A council for EBP was initiated and formed in 2010. The council consists of frontline clinical nurses, nurse directors, teachers, researchers and representative of the nursing leadership. The purpose of the council is to advance EBP in patient care and management, support the use of research and other evidence by organizing systematic education to nurses and leaders, JBI guidelines, information retrieval, journal clubs and learning from the best practices. EBP tutors and mentors started their work in 2013 in the units. Several activities are on the way, e.g. preventing patients’ falls, pain management, hygiene and continuing education of EBP to nurse leaders and frontline nurses. The council is a part of the hospital's Nursing Development, Teaching and Research Unit (NDTRU) lead by chief nursing officer. Discussion: Organizing EBP in clinical practice should be sysematic and well organized. Conclusion: Since 2010, EBP has evolved and the interest among practicing nurses has increased. Results of the activity should be measured in a reliable way.