Connecting people and knowledge: The struggles and triumphs of an evidence-based practice (EBP)/research shared governance council

Abstract

<p>In late 2007 a 300 bed County Hospital created an EBP/Research Council as part of a shared governance structure. Members were solicited from nursing staff and academic institutions. Meetings were scheduled quarterly, but had poor attendance. The staff nurses assigned to the council were inexperienced in evidence-based practice and the research process time passed without much progress. The Council was floundering. Barriers to council success were identified as knowledge deficit, available resources, timing of the meetings, turnover of council members, and engagement of the nurses in the EBP/research process. In 2008 registered nurses participated in an IRB approved survey on the Knowledge and Evidence Based Practice Readiness of Working Registered Nurses in Rural West Texas. Results of the survey were used as a needs assessment for the creation of a series of classes on EBP. The hospital subscribed to an online database. New volunteer council members were recruited. In 2009 council members were given resource manuals on EBP and research. All council members completed the Protection of Human Subjects training online. The council developed a power point presentation to be shown at unit based council meetings. Council voted to increase the meeting frequency to bi- monthly. In 2010 a poster day showcasing evidence-based practice projects was held in the hospital lobby where patients, visitor and staff members were welcomed to browse and ask questions. The research council became a resource for other councils. Meetings began to be held monthly. In 2011, goals set by the council include writing an article for publication, hosting and EBP/Research Conference Day, mentoring individuals who submit questions, and peer reviewing articles or conference presentations associated with the hospital.</p>