One of the conclusions that I found interesting from the article “Detecting Distress” were the differences in the patient groups categorized by age. I found this interesting because the younger groups had more distress than the older groups. This was found to be consistent in other studies as well. Although the younger groups had more distress the problems listed were the same for the older and younger groups. I think that this evidence can be applied to my nursing care by simply making me aware that younger patient groups may be more sensitive to distress and need referrals more frequently than older patients. I can see how this would be true given my experience with patients.

One way that I think could be effective for me to disseminate research-based evidence with my peers would be by using a research poster. As discussed in our lesson this week a poster provides the same information as a research report, but the reader is able to glance at the various parts of the report quickly. This type of presentation would work well on the communication board in my unit. It could also be presented at a staff meeting.

It is important that nurses are able to communicate and apply nursing research evidence because then we know we are providing care based on best practice guidelines. Using EBP to lead our practice assures us that we are providing care that results in the best patient outcomes and experience. I know that when policy changes are accompanied by EBP that staff is more likely to understand the reason for change and they are more likely to be adherent to the new policy. I no longer hear “well, this is the way we have always done it” at work. My colleagues are open to change as long as they know that we are doing the best for the patient.

References

Chamberlain College of Nursing. NR439-Evidence-Based Practice. Week 7: Lesson (2019).

O’Connor, M., Tanner, P. B., Miller, L., Watts, K. J., & Musiello, T. (2017). Detecting Distress. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, 21(1), 79–85. https://doi-org.chamberlainuniversity.idm.oclc.org…