Abstract
Evidence-based practice (EBP) is essential to the work of healthcare professionals. It involves the application of best clinical evidence, clinical expertise and patient values in delivering clinical care. This book serves to provide methodology and action plans to put this into practice, with particular focus on team working, and the importance of mentors in facilitating EBP. The authors use the revised Iowa model 1 as a framework for EBP and set out the tools, processes and resources required for EBP in action.
The Iowa model starts with the step of identifying triggering issues or opportunities for an EBP project, followed by stating the question or purpose of the project. Next, the professional decides if the topic is a priority and, if it is, goes on to form a team. This team then collates and appraises evidence on the chosen topic, before deciding if there is sufficient evidence. If so, the process continues onto designing and piloting the change in practice based on evidence. If the pilot data suggests that this change is appropriate for adopting, the next step is to sustain and integrate the change. The final step involves disseminating results. 1
The book starts with a clear flow diagram introducing the revised Iowa model. The chapters go on to focus on each sequential stage of the Iowa model, giving the text a logical structure. Throughout, there are clear tables and figures to support the text. As a whole, despite covering some dry topics, it is easy to navigate and read. Each chapter has a succinct introduction which covers the relevant aspects of EBP, and concludes with a helpful ‘tools’ section. These give the reader examples of each stage of the EBP process, including examples of EBP presentations, posters and publications.
The ‘Implementation’ chapter focuses on incentives for engaging clinicians and stakeholders, including financial incentives for EBP. Whilst this may be relevant in certain healthcare systems, the use of financial incentives for clinicians is not in line with GMC guidance on good medical practice in the United Kingdom. This makes certain aspects of this book less suitable for application within the NHS. However, it still raises valuable points on implementing EBP in healthcare.
In conclusion, this text lays out the major steps in how healthcare professionals can carry out EBP, as well as providing practical advice on any difficulties that may be encountered during this process. This book is particularly aimed at nursing staff and, at times, is perhaps of more relevance to healthcare systems other than the NHS. However, it acts as an excellent basis for anyone wishing to gain ideas on how to carry out EBP and would be a useful addition for a clinical team who would like practical advice on EBP in action.