How to Translate Evidence into Clinical Practice
As a DNP student, you will need to systematically review research to make a change in clinical practice based on valid evidence. As such, consider the following approach
1. Evaluate the Need for Change in the Practice
Assess whether there is enough evidence to warrant initiation of the change in the nursing practice. You could accomplish this by comparing internal and external data on the current protocols.
2. Link the Problem with Nursing Interventions and Healthcare Outcomes
Once you determine that the proof indicates a need for change, you will need to identify possible interventions that can cause the change and the outcome the change will cause.
3. Assimilate the Best Evidence
After identifying the problem, you should state it as a focused clinical question that you can answer using a literature review. You will also want to place the benefits and risks the patient will face after the clinical changes are implemented.
4. Design the Practice Change
Involve others to identify methods that you can use to implement the changes to the practice.
5. Implement the Change
Implement the strategies you identified in the previous step while carefully evaluating them to ensure that the evidence supports them.
6. Integrating and Maintaining the Change
Once the change in practice is integrated, maintain it by setting up criteria that allow for constant reassessment of the interventions you used to implement it.
Final Thoughts on Your DNP Project
Your DNP capstone project is a vital part of your doctorate education and also forms the epitome of your higher learning experience. It offers you the chance to showcase your expertise and proficiency in matters concerning clinical nursing. As such, it is essential to know how to develop your DNP project.
Besides that, it also grants you the opportunity to make a valid contribution to clinical practice while setting the groundwork for future scholarships. By learning how to develop your project using an evidence-based approach, you will improve your critical thinking and analytic skills. So, you will be better positioned to apply the knowledge you have gained throughout your schooling experience.
