Research and evidence-based practice (EBP) are two linked concepts within the realm of advanced nursing practice, each having a unique yet associated role. Researching refers to the systematic investigation conducted to produce new knowledge, confirm existing ideas, or consider issues within the nursing profession. It adheres to a standard methodology, normally using percentage or ratio-based numerical, factual, or mixed methods to gather and review data. The root of the study of advanced practice nursing has several strands that serve multiple dimensions. First, it facilitates the widening of nursing science by looking into nursing practice, education, and political issues. The second factor is its role in evidence-based practice since it measures the impact of interventions on health outcomes and informs clinical decision-making. In the end, the research supports critical thinking and analysis among advanced practice nurses so that they can evaluate and use the evidence in their roles.
In contrast, evidence-based practice is about the integration of the best knowledge out there with clinical expertise as well as patient choice for better decision-making and the outcomes of patients. It advocates for evidence-based medicine where sound research results, clinical directions, and patient preferences are integrated into the delivery of the best quality care, centering on the patient’s perspectives. While research allows new knowledge to be developed, EBP transforms this knowledge into practice, making sure that the evidenced clinical interventions meet the highest current standard.
The objective of research in a nursing advanced practitioner setting is to grow the science and the practice of nursing by building knowledge of the field, looking for efficient measures, and implementing evidence-based care. Research will help grow the nursing profession by sorting out the nursing theory, identifying the best practices that lead to improved patient outcomes, informing health policy, and building good nursing education. Research in nursing is multifaceted in that its value is numerous (Polit & Beck, 2020). Primarily, research forms the basis of evidence-based practice, thereby ensuring that the clinical decision-making process is informed by empirical evidence and that patient outcomes are improved. Also, research skills can position the professional development of nurses at various levels by improving their critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Research, therefore, plays a major role in promoting nursing science through the synthesis of new information, validation of existing healthcare theories, and management of new issues in the healthcare system. Ultimately, research strengthens the credibility and esteem of the nursing profession by showing its inclination to the evidence-based approach and ceaseless self-improvement.
When inter-professional cooperation in the context of the current research project is discussed, I will seek the expert advice of different members of the team to ensure that the research question will be addressed properly. Particularly, I would consider working with experts specializing in healthcare informatics, epidemiology, and biostatistics. Healthcare informatics specialists can be subject matter experts in the usage of electronic health records (EHRs) and health information technology (HIT) systems to collect, manage, and generate data for research. Their data mining techniques, database management, and data visualization skills can increase the efficiency and accuracy of data analysis, thereby strengthening the validity and reliability of research outcomes.
Additionally, epidemiologists have expertise in mapping health status patterns as well as the determinants of health and disease in populations. The knowledge of research design, sampling, and data analysis by the researchers can help in designing robust studies and sampling strategies, as well as the robust transferability and external validity of research findings. Furthermore, biostatisticians have advanced statistical expertise, which is very important in analyzing complex healthcare data (Zapf et al., 2020). Their capabilities in statistical modeling, hypothesis testing, and data interpretation can provide valuable contributions to the field, as they can determine the statistical significance and clinical relevance of research findings, contributing to evidence-based decision-making and practice improvement.
In essence, research and evidence-based practice are two foundation pillars of advanced practice nursing, and they are intended to serve unique but supporting purposes. Besides disclosing new information and advancing nursing science, the knowledge from the research is transferred to clinical applications to increase patient care. Engaging in interdisciplinary work with health informatics, epidemiology, biostatistics, and other nursing professionals can enhance the research process and, ultimately, the reliability and significance of findings in developing better nursing strategies and care.
References
Polit, D. F., & Beck, C. T. (2020). Nursing research: Generating and assessing evidence for nursing practice. Wolters Kluwer.
Zapf, A., Rauch, G., & Kieser, M. (2020). Why do you need a biostatistician? BMC Medical Research Methodology, 20, 1-6.
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