Exciting Innovations

EBP Cafés: A New Approach

Moving out of the shadow of COVID-19, the Nursing Research Department, Patti Radovich, PhD, CNS, FCCM, and Marga Kasim, BSN, were seeking ways to update and engage our nursing staff in evidence-based practice activities. The concept of EBP Cafés was recognized as a potential format. In cafés, individuals meet others and engage in discussions over a variety of topics. With the assistance of Priscilla Santos for LLU Medical Center, templates for the Dennis and Carol Troesh Medical Campus, East Campus, Surgical Hospital and LLU Medical Center – Murrieta, were designed.

Evidence-based Practice Cafés

The initial meetings began in March in the cafeterias, and continued meeting on a quarterly basis. At each site, a table was set up with information regarding EBP resources, available technology applications, giveaways and snacks. The activity was well received by staff from a variety of disciplines. A total of 128 staff for all sites (78 nurses and 50 interdisciplinary staff members) stopped by to learn more about the resources available during the first café sessions. Those who came were excited about getting involved on campus, and the support and resources available that many did not previously know of (grants, library access from home, MS Teams, and MS software.)

The cafés for the fall quarter included information on the difference between EBP, quality and research questions. Future sessions in the first and second quarter of 2023 will include: searching for the evidence (library skills and resources) and measurement/outcome development.