NURS 6170 – Evidence-Based Practice II at Saint Louis University is an advanced graduate-level course that delves into the principles and applications of evidence-based practice within the field of nursing. The course covers a comprehensive array of topics essential for nursing professionals seeking to enhance their proficiency in evidence-based decision-making and patient care. Key components of the course include:
- Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice (EBP): Students will gain a deep understanding of the fundamentals of evidence-based practice, exploring its historical context and the evolution of EBP in nursing. The emphasis is on cultivating a strong foundation in the principles that guide evidence-based decision-making in healthcare.
- Research Appraisal: The course provides a thorough examination of research methodologies, equipping students with the skills to critically appraise research studies. This includes evaluating the validity and reliability of research designs, understanding statistical methods, and discerning the relevance of findings to nursing practice.
- Application of Evidence to Practice: NURS 6170 focuses on bridging the gap between research and practice. Students will learn how to effectively apply evidence to inform and improve nursing interventions, patient care plans, and decision-making processes in diverse healthcare settings.
- Clinical Decision-Making: A significant portion of the course is dedicated to enhancing students’ abilities in making informed and evidence-based clinical decisions. This involves synthesizing research findings, integrating patient preferences, and considering clinical expertise to optimize patient outcomes.
- Ethical Considerations in Evidence-Based Practice: The course addresses the ethical dimensions of utilizing evidence in healthcare decision-making. Students explore the ethical responsibilities associated with integrating research findings into clinical practice and learn to navigate ethical dilemmas in evidence-based decision-making.
- Implementation Science: NURS 6170 introduces students to the principles of implementation science, emphasizing strategies for successfully integrating evidence-based practices into real-world healthcare settings. This includes understanding barriers to implementation and developing skills to facilitate change in healthcare practices.
- Advanced Data Analysis: Building on foundational statistical knowledge, the course covers advanced data analysis techniques relevant to nursing research. Students acquire the skills necessary to interpret and analyze complex data sets, contributing to their ability to engage with and contribute to the scholarly literature in nursing.
- Professional Development in Evidence-Based Practice: The course emphasizes the ongoing professional development of nursing practitioners in the context of evidence-based practice. Students will explore strategies for staying current with the latest research, engaging in lifelong learning, and contributing to the advancement of nursing knowledge.
NURS 6170 is designed for graduate students in nursing who are committed to advancing their clinical practice through a rigorous understanding and application of evidence-based principles. The course prepares students to critically evaluate, synthesize, and apply research evidence to enhance the quality of nursing care and contribute to the ongoing development of nursing science.
