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At the end of this section, you will be able to:

‹ Discuss the importance of dissemination of research findings to building evidence-

based practice

‹ Recognize the importance of dissemination in the cycle of science

Sharing the Insights with Others

Janet M. Brown and Nola A. Schmidt

19.1 Dissemination: What Is My Role?

Recently, national efforts have been aimed at realizing the goal of dissemination for the purpose of
improving patient outcomes and reducing costs (Coleman, Rosenbek, & Roman, 2013). Evidence-based
practice (EBP) cannot be successful if nurses fail to read or hear about new knowledge. Evidence must be
made available in accessible and comprehensible ways so that innovations are adopted. Dissemination
is the communication of clinical, research, and theoretical findings for the purpose of transitioning
new knowledge to the point of care. EBP cannot evolve unless communication channels in the soci-
etal system are used effectively to bring about change. Dissemination of findings is most successful if
multiple methods are used over time. These methods need to be systematic, coordinated, and efficient
(Kerner, Rimer, & Emmons, 2005). In the profession of nursing, there are three major ways that new
knowledge is disseminated: posters, presentations, and papers. These are often referred to as the 3 Ps
of dissemination.

CHAPTER 19