Evidence-Based Practice for Nurses

Ten years from now, nursing students will study how historical occurrences have shaped the

evolution of nursing as a science. Discuss four current events that will be considered to have

influenced the development of nursing science.

CRITICAL THINKING EXERCISE 1-6

True/False

1. Nursing research popular in the 1950s involved the study of nursing students.


2. Grand nursing theories were first introduced in the 1980s.


3. In the 1980s, DRGs were a driving force because they focused nursing research on
   cost-effectiveness.


4. Technological advances created a knowledge explosion that has vastly influenced
   nursing research.


5. Each historical era contributed to the development of nursing science.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE 1-3

How did you do? 1. T; 2. F; 3. T; 4. T; 5. T

The electronic medical record (EMR) is fast becoming standard in health
care. Concerns about the protection of personal information are paramount.
Additionally, linking EBP to EMRs will evolve. For example, when patient data
are entered into the EMR, a message may appear suggesting practice guidelines
based on the best evidence.

1.4 What Lies Ahead?

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

‹ Identify factors that will continue to move nursing forward as a science

‹ Discuss what future trends may influence how nurses use evidence to improve the

quality of patient care

Factors similar to those that have propelled nursing research forward through
history will continue to be influential into the future. In the 21st century, nurs-
ing research will grow in importance as EBP becomes more widely established
and patient outcomes come under increased scrutiny. Nursing research agendas
will continue to be driven by social and political influences.

The cycle of scientific development must continue in order to expand the
body of nursing knowledge and to recognize nurses for their contributions to

1.4 What Lies Ahead? 31