evaluation of the process of identifying the gaps and the appropriate interventions to seal them

evaluation of the process of identifying the gaps and the appropriate interventions to seal them

Gaps in nursing practice are a significant barrier in the provision of quality healthcare to patients. The gaps arise because of several factors, including the lack of guidelines on how to translate evidence-based research findings into practice and the absence of measures to encourage nursing research (Leach & Tucker, 2017). In this exercise, the evaluation of the process of identifying the gaps and the appropriate interventions to seal them will occur.

A needs assessment exercise is necessary for identifying gaps in practice. It offers a structured approach to the process. The first step entails the identification of a practice problem. Having a conception of the practice problem is essential because it offers the basis for seeking interventions. Essentially, it is improbable for one to find a solution for a problem that they do not know exists. To identify a practice problem, it is crucial to engage all stakeholders, including colleagues and end-users of healthcare — patients (Rasmussen et al., 2018). These stakeholders offer a practical outlook of the challenges facing a healthcare organization because they are on the frontline.

After identifying a practice problem, the next step involves the collection of data. This step enables one to gauge the extent of the problem and forms the basis for a gap analysis. Subsequently, analysis of the data should occur. This process helps in determining what the data suggests about the cause of a problem. Consequently, it then provides direction as to the nature of the inquiry that should follow. For instance, it may require quality improvement, evidence-based practice, or original research. Conceptualization of these elements occurs in the gap analysis map.

The gap analysis map is critical in the gap identification process. It provides an overview of what the practice problem is, the type of gap that exists (whether knowledge, practice, or skills), the chosen intervention, and the anticipated outcomes. The map is essential because it allows practitioners and other stakeholders to have a wholesome overview of a problem and its potential solutions.

Numerous strategies for overcoming a knowledge gap exist. The most appropriate entails the acquisition of the missing knowledge through research. Research is one of the forms of nursing inquiries. It offers a healthcare provider with an opportunity to discover new evidence regarding a practice issue. Such an inquiry implies that during the process of obtaining proof concerning a practice problem, the practitioner also bridges their knowledge gap regarding that issue.

A leader in healthcare plays an integral role in helping others to bridge the knowledge gap. In my case, I would assist others in achieving this outcome by creating an enabling environment where they can undertake research. For instance, I would liaise with senior colleagues who have considerable knowledge and experience in both clinical issues and tutorship to act as preceptors to individuals seeking to expand their knowledge base regarding relevant practice problems (Dang, & Dearholt, 2018). Further, I would allow them to incorporate the facility’s patients into their studies as part of the sample population if they follow the guidelines of the hospital’s ethics review committee.

Evidence-based practice is essential in modern-day healthcare. It improves the quality of care availed to patients, especially considering that it incorporates patient-centered principles. Therefore, a leader must be at the forefront of the implementation of evidence-based practices within a healthcare setting. I would develop guidelines that are pertinent to the application of evidence-based practice. Such policies are vital as they would provide all stakeholders with a clear outlook of what qualifies as acceptable evidence-based research or not. For instance, all recommendations from evidence-based research must incorporate ethical principles in medical practice.

References

Dang, D., & Dearholt, S. (2018). Johns Hopkins nursing evidence-based practice model and guidelines (3rd ed.). Indianapolis, IN: Sigma Theta Tau International.

Leach, M. J., & Tucker, B. (2017). Current Understandings of the Research–Practice Gap From the Viewpoint of Complementary Medicine Academics: A Mixed-Method Investigation. EXPLORE: The Journal of Science and Healing, 13(1), 53–61. https:doi.org.10.1016/j.explore.2016.10.005

Rasmussen, C. D. N., Højberg, H., Bengtsen, E., & Jørgensen, M. B. (2018). Identifying knowledge gaps between practice and research for implementation components of sustainable interventions to improve the working environment – A rapid review. Applied Ergonomics, 67, 178–192. https://doi.org.10.1016/j.apergo.2017.09.014