The ABC’s of Nursing – International Nurses Association

The ABC’s of Nursing – International Nurses Association Nursing has changed dramatically over the years, and most would agree the change has been for the better. Many medical facilities now operate on the concept of patient centered care, involving the patient more than ever before. Medical records and lab reports can often be obtained online, allowing the patient to see results first hand, which in, most cases is a great benefit.

Evidence Based Practice Evidence-based practice (EBP) combines science, the nurse’s expertise in the art of nursing, and patient considerations to create a whole that is greater than the sum of the parts. Barriers inhibiting direct-care nurses’ use of EBP range from the culture within practice areas to unfamiliarity with how to apply this relatively complex process. A very popular mnemonic was created—“ABCs of EBP”—to provide an easy-to-remember framework that all nurses could use as a guide for the process Related: A Day in the Life of a Diabetes Nurse The ABCs of EBP are: A = Ask the question B = Books and literature review C = Consider the evidence D = Develop and Apply E = Evaluate F = Facilitate Closer look at each step.

A = Ask the question Question development is so critical to EBP that the PICOT mnemonic was developed to help shape the essential elements into a workable format. In

this mnemonic, P represents population of interest, I represents intervention, C represents comparison (comparing processes), O represents outcome (evaluating effectiveness of the process), and T represents time as an element to provide structure. PICOT works like a filter, targeting efforts and narrowing the search for information as it applies to a specific patient care issue.

B = Books and literature review At this stage, the nurse collects both research-based and non-research based information to find what has been learned about the subject of the PICOT question. Sources of information include professional journals, books, expert opinions, clinical practice guidelines, organizational procedures, case studies, and literature reviews. A little practice with search engines coupled with a well-targeted PICOT question helps streamline the process of collecting information.

C = Consider the evidence Now it’s time to consider the evidence, which includes the data that has been collected, as well as input from the patient and the expertise of the nurse. As the nurse gathers the information, consideration should be given to the strength of the research studies or expert opinions as they apply to the particular practice setting. Several formats exist for weighing the literature, such as examining the appropriateness of the study design.

Quantitative research is considered the gold standard, but qualitative research is also helpful, particularly in cases when the question is related to attitudes or emotions.

Other considerations include cost and resources. A care intervention won’t work if it is cost prohibitive, the resources are not available, or the patient cannot perform the procedure. For example, a patient with debilitating arthritis or neuropathy may not be able to perform complex dressing changes. The key is to individualize the intervention for the patient.

Related: Why are Online Nursing School Reviews Important?

Consideration, careful synthesis, and application of all available evidence provides an opportunity to produce the best outcome for a patient or a group of patients.

D = Develop and apply This is the action step for a practice intervention or an EBP project. The direct care nurse uses the elements from the evidence, patient input, and the resources at hand to develop a nursing intervention that is acceptable to the patients within the immediate care area. If sufficient evidence is lacking, the nurse may start a practice or research study. In addition, evidence could also show that the current practice is the best practice and no changes are needed.

E = Evaluate This is the most familiar step for nurses. It’s important to evaluate the response to an intervention so nurses can continue a plan or process that’s working or revise as needed. Some projects might be expanded into research studies.

F = Facilitate Nurses can share what they learn with staff within an organization through poster presentations, journal clubs, or hospital newsletters. External avenues of dissemination include podium or poster presentations at nursing conventions and publishing review articles for nursing journals. Published, nurse-generated research and projects will increase the body of nursing knowledge.

A useful tool Nurses can use the ABC mnemonic as a tool to improve patient care delivery, implement EBP projects, and develop the nursing research needed to promote professional growth. The ABC’s of EBP will support, stimulate, and further advance nursing professionalism.

Naturally nursing is nowhere near as simple as ABC, however the ABC factor can help you to remember certain aspects of your nursing skills, do’s and don’ts. Anytime there is a useful tool that can be of benefit to you as a nurse, or to your patient, it's a great idea to use it, or at least keep it available for use as needed.

Tips to Remember -

think before answering take vacations remove energy drainers support co-workers treat yourself avoid aggravating people keep in touch w/yourself and your needs say no w/o guilt ask for help use available resources evaluate your growth and stay focused. re-energize

One of the most important things to remember and practice in nursing is, to know your limitations. If you start to feel overwhelmed more, for long periods of time, or you feel as though you cannot get caught up on work, it's time to summon help. Knowing when to ask for assistance is part of being a great nurse, and a very important tip to remember. Many times nurses burn out due to the fact that they did not feel they could reach out for help, viewing it as a sign that they could not do their job on their own. There are a number of support groups, many within hospitals that are there to support nurses, and to provide valuable information to use in your nursing career.

Getting involved in a support group is a form of networking and can be one of the great parts of nursing. Exchanging ideas and suggestions, along with having others that can relate to your experience can be a positive move for most nurses. The goal is to continue in the career you love, and adding support for yourself will help ensure you remain a nurse.

Related: Leading Registered Nurse Patricia Gaye Proo, RN to be Published in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare as New Member of the International Nurses Association Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest and Twitter