You have provided a good overview of the relationship between evidence-based practice (EBP) and best practice in healthcare. Best practice refers to the integration of research-based knowledge into healthcare delivery, while EBP is the use of the best evidence from research in patient care. These concepts are closely related, as best practice is built on evidence from research and is then integrated into practice to form EBP (Houston, 2020).
I would like to add some additional information to your discussion on the challenges of implementing EBP. One significant challenge is the lack of knowledge and skills for application. Many healthcare professionals, including nurses, may not be aware of how to conduct effective literature searches, critically appraise research studies, or apply the findings to their practice (Mathieson, Grande, & Luker, 2019). This can lead to a gap between the research evidence and its implementation in clinical practice.
Another challenge is negative attitudes and misconceptions about research and EBP. Some healthcare professionals may have a lack of understanding or appreciation for the value of research in informing practice. There may be a perception that EBP is time-consuming or impractical in the real-world healthcare setting. Overcoming these negative attitudes and misconceptions is crucial for successful implementation of EBP (Houston, 2020).
Related to the challenge of negative attitudes is the issue of workload. Nurses often have heavy workloads, leaving them with little time for engaging in research and applying EBP. This can create a barrier to the implementation of EBP, as nurses may struggle to find the time and resources to stay up-to-date with the latest evidence and incorporate it into their practice (Mathieson, Grande, & Luker, 2019).
Lastly, organizational constraints can hinder the implementation of EBP. Lack of support and resources for research within healthcare organizations can make it difficult for nurses to engage in evidence-based practice. An organizational culture that does not prioritize or encourage innovation may not foster an environment conducive to EBP (Houston, 2020). Overcoming these constraints requires a commitment from healthcare organizations to provide the necessary resources and create a culture that supports and values EBP.
In conclusion, implementing EBP in nursing practice involves challenges related to knowledge and skills, attitudes and misconceptions, workload, and organizational constraints. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that includes education and training, changing attitudes and perceptions, providing support and resources, and fostering an organizational culture that promotes innovation and EBP (Mathieson, Grande, & Luker, 2019).
References
Houston, C. (2020). Professional issues in nursing: Challenges and opportunities. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer.
Mathieson, A., Grande, G., & Luker, K. (2019). Strategies, facilitators and barriers to implementation of evidence-based practice in community nursing: a systematic mixed-studies review and qualitative synthesis. [Journal name], [Volume(issue)], [page range]. [doi or URL if available]