We begin our journey into discovering the new world of research and evidence-based practice (EBP) by exploring our past. After completing the required readings and lesson, answer the following:
Explain how research has evolved since the Florence Nightingale era.
Discuss how research and EBP are different; include how you believe research supports EBP for nursing.
Describe one past/historical unethical breach of research conduct; then, share how you would ensure care of a study participant using one ethical or legal research consideration (guideline/principle).
Evolution of Research and Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
Research in nursing has come a long way since the days of Florence Nightingale, evolving into a sophisticated and essential aspect of modern healthcare practice. This essay will explore the evolution of research in nursing, the distinction between research and evidence-based practice (EBP), and ethical considerations in research conduct.
Evolution of Research in Nursing
- From Observation to Evidence: In the Florence Nightingale era, nursing practice was often based on observations and personal experiences. Over time, research methodologies have become more rigorous, incorporating scientific principles and evidence-based approaches.
- Advancements in Methodologies: The evolution of research in nursing has seen the development of various methodologies, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods approaches. Nurses now have access to a wide range of research tools and techniques to investigate healthcare phenomena.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Research in nursing has expanded to involve interdisciplinary collaboration with professionals from diverse fields, allowing for a more comprehensive and holistic approach to healthcare research.
Difference Between Research and EBP
- Research: Research involves the systematic investigation of phenomena to generate new knowledge, test hypotheses, and contribute to the scientific understanding of healthcare practices.
- Evidence-Based Practice (EBP): EBP integrates the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient preferences to inform decision-making in healthcare. EBP aims to improve patient outcomes by applying research findings to clinical practice.
Role of Research in Supporting EBP for Nursing
Research plays a crucial role in supporting EBP for nursing by:
- Providing a scientific foundation for clinical decision-making
- Identifying best practices and interventions based on empirical evidence
- Evaluating the effectiveness of interventions and healthcare policies
- Fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within healthcare settings
Historical Unethical Breach of Research Conduct
One past example of unethical research conduct is the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, where African American men were denied treatment for syphilis without their informed consent. To ensure the care of study participants and uphold ethical principles, one must adhere to the following ethical considerations:
- Informed Consent: Obtain voluntary, informed consent from participants before involving them in research studies.
- Confidentiality: Protect the privacy and confidentiality of participants by safeguarding their personal information.
- Beneficence: Ensure that research benefits outweigh potential risks to participants' well-being.
- Respect for Persons: Treat participants with respect, dignity, and autonomy throughout the research process.
Conclusion
As nursing continues to embrace research and evidence-based practice, it is essential to recognize the evolution of research methodologies, the distinction between research and EBP, and the importance of upholding ethical principles in research conduct. By integrating research findings into clinical practice ethically and responsibly, nurses can enhance patient care, promote evidence-based decision-making, and contribute to advancements in healthcare outcomes.