One of the last steps in many evidence-based practice (EPB) efforts is monitoring and evaluating any changes in outcomes. Positive effects can be supported, and negative ones can be remedied. Even though a particular intervention was effective in controlled clinical trials does not mean it will work the same way in a clinical setting or for a particular patient. Monitoring the effect of an EBP change on health care quality and outcomes can help in identifying flaws in implementation and identify which patients are most likely to benefit. When results are different from those reported in the research literature, monitoring can help determine why.
Questions to think about:
- Were the desired outcomes achieved?
- Was the patient satisfied with the result?
Melnyk B. M., Fineout-Overholt E., Stillwell S. B., & Williamson K. M. (2010). Evidence-based practice: step by step. The seven steps of evidence-based practice: following this progressive, sequential approach will lead to improved health care and patient outcomes. AJN American Journal of Nursing, 110(1), 51–53. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NAJ.0000366056.06605.d2
Polit, D. F and Beck, C. T. (2021) Nursing research: Generating and assessing evidence for nursing practice (11th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.