Nursing research focuses on growing new concepts and theories for practice changes. At the same time, evidence-based practice takes the findings of nursing research firmly interpreted as appropriate for clinical practice and systematically integrates the implementation of the research findings.

At Duke University Health System, both the research and EBP pathways follow the IOWA Model of EBP to develop projects and presentations.

Research or Innovation
Research involves the systematic exploration or examination of study materials in order to generate new knowledge and conclusions or replicate previous findings. Implementation and dissemination research examines the translation of research into health care areas for the unique differences of research implementations (facilitators & barriers, adaptations of research into practice settings). Innovation research involves the study of the impact of a new method, service, idea, or product into a practice environment.

Evidence-Based Practice or Inquiry
Evidence-Based Practice or informally known as, inquiry, can be traced back to Florence Nightingale, although a pioneer in her work she was not credited with the title of implementing evidence-based practice. Evidence-Based Practice is defined by the integration of the healthcare systems’ most relevant and up-to-date research. By using the principles of best practice to reduce variation, provide quality improvement throughout changes in the latest research, cost efficiency, and sustainability to embark upon improving the primary focus of health and safety of patients.

Critical impacts are medical literature, clinical experience, and patient experience.

Evidence-based practice implementation takes formal steps, using Duke University Health Care System approved EBP Model: IOWA Model. Links are available in a template and guidance format.

Before starting an IOWA Model, you must define the problem.