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Research, Nursing practice and evidence-based practice

For many years, healthcare decisions were based on the knowledge of pathophysiology, clinical experience, and expert opinions along with patient preferences. Today healthcare providers are encouraged to use evidence when making decisions about client care. The term evidence-based practice (EBP) involves complex and conscientious decision-making based on the best available evidence relative to the specific situation, along with patient characteristics and preferences (Grove & Gray, 2019). As nurses, we are encouraged to develop rigorous clinical practice guidelines that have been developed based on the best research evidence available. Using evidence-based practice and developing evidence-based practice guidelines rely heavily on the partnership with scientific evidence. So, where do we get the evidence?

The evidence we use is a result of research. Research is defined as, “A systematic inquiry that uses orderly, disciplined methods to answer questions or solve problems” (Polit & Beck, 2017). According to Grove and Gray (2019), it is diligent, systematic inquiry or study that validates and refines existing knowledge and develops new knowledge. The ultimate goal of research is to develop an empirical body of knowledge for a discipline or profession, such as nursing. Therefore, nursing research can be described as a “scientific process that validates and refines existing knowledge and generates new knowledge that directly and indirectly influences nursing practice” (Grove & Gray, 2019). All aspects of nursing, including practice, education, administration, and policy are dependent on and strengthened by research. This empirical knowledge is essential for promoting the delivery of high-quality, safe client care.

Research process

The research process involves a logical flow of steps, with one step builds off of the previous step, and progressively onto another. According to Grove and Gray (2019), the eight steps of the research process are outlined below along with a brief description of each step.

1. Identify a research problem

2. Formulate a research purpose

3. Identify the study methodology

4. Review the literature

5. Describe the theoretical framework

6. State the research objectives, questions, hypotheses, and procedures

7. Present results

8. Discuss findings