How would you critically use research to resolve a discrepancy between professional standards and actual practice observed within your facility?

How would you critically use research to resolve a discrepancy between professional standards and actual practice observed within your facility?

Response 1 (jean)

Professional standards are used as a measure of competency and provide guidelines for nursing performance. The actual performance of an individual can be compared to the level that is acceptable in line with professional standards.  The purpose of professional standards laid down by the American Nursing Association (ANA) is to provide an evaluation tool to make sure that nurses perform in a safe and competent manner and that high quality care is consistent amongst all nurses. Professional nursing standards are also used to provide a framework for developing clinical competency checklists or proficiency evaluations for a specific clinical unit or employer (White, 2016).   If an employer or colleague notices or suspects that a nurse is not practicing safely or is not adhering to policies, these standards can be referred to for guidance. According to White (2016), professional standards make nurses accountable for clinical decisions and actions and lay down the foundation to promote patient centered care, making sure that they give the best possible care whilst keeping their patient’s safe.  Nurses are encouraged to keep abreast of the latest guidelines and build their knowledge base through continuing education and experience.

According to the ANA (2015), standard 13 states that “The registered nurse integrates evidence and research findings into practice”.  Nurses incorporate evidenced based practice (EBP) into daily nursing care which is derived from research, clinical expertise and patient preferences. EBP in nursing provides nurses with the scientific research to make clinical decisions for the wellbeing of their patients. It also allows nurses to stay updated about medical protocols and documents interventions to be implemented in patient care. EBP gives nurses the reliable, trusted information they need about risks or effectiveness of a treatment or test to include in a patients care plan.   Regarding a discrepancy in the workplace, research such as EBP can be referred to in order to solve a discrepancy between professional standards and actual practice.  There are also policies available in the workplace to consult on how procedures should be carried out. Nurses should keep up to date with new policies and procedures and also talk to other nurses for guidance and resources.  It’s also important to seek out learning opportunities and maybe a mentor to learn from.  If a nurse is observed not following professional standards, it could be that further training is required or they may need to have a discussion with their supervisor to address any issues or concerns.  Research sets down the foundations for professional standards which in turn enables nurses to give the best possible care for positive outcomes for our patients.