Clinical research, knowledge and evidence-based practice are the 3 fundamental pillars of modern-day nursing practice. The relationship between them is intrigued with cyclicity and is at best reciprocal. Every institution should emphasize taking note of these 3 components while initiating nursing education and/or nursing service which would ultimately result in better patient care and outcomes. 

Bridging the gap by integration of education, practice and research

Evaluation of current practice trends related to patient care often reveals “gaps” in certain areas/geographies which is now named as “clinical care gaps”. Education facilitated by research helps bridge these clinical care gaps to enable better patient outcomes.  Nursing leaders should wholeheartedly work towards fulfilling this societal obligation of bridging these so-called “gaps” when they are training students on basics and advanced aspects of nursing care. It is crucial that these innovations are incorporated or integrated into existing standards of care to ensure a smooth transition minimizing disruption. 

Methods to enhance Integration

There is an ever-increasing load of new graduates in nursing and hence the approach to meet their educational needs to be revisited and revised from time to time. Senior nurses have a vital role to play in this as role models and there should be proper motivation/incentive for them to take up these mentoring roles for new graduate nurses. In addition, fast track refresher courses and workshops with emphasis on real life examples should be made a part of the curriculum. 

Feedback systems from existing faculty of nursing and students should flow seamlessly into nursing bodies which decide curriculum and update from time to time in view of recent advances that are backed by robust research and data. 

Education, Practice & Research Congruence

Integration of research into education and execution of that into clinical practice will help create new practice models fostering a sense of partnership that can address complex needs and challenges. A proper surveillance system needs to be established to monitor progress and take corrective steps if required for a course modification or alteration. This will ensure minimal disruption in the patient care flow model. 

Advantages

Advantages of this research enabled nursing care flow model besides ensuring updated patient care also helps establish a teamwork which ensures different parts of the care flow model is working synchronously. Regular surveillance and updates done on feedback helps build transparency in the system. In addition, a standardized nursing care flow model will help bring a uniformity in pay structure and provide a road map for future institutes to follow and get established. This is a necessity and a need of the hour in view of the ever-increasing number of patients in the society and or community to which the nursing care flow model is catering to. 

Integration with a perfect blend of practice, research with teaching applied in primary, secondary and tertiary care settings lifts the standard of patient care. It empowers leadership roles and motivates in translating the plans into actions, instrumental in building a positive work culture both as educators and as practitioners. 

Authors Biography

Suchhanda Bhattacharya, is a dedicated nursing professional with a robust academic and professional background. A life member of NQOCN, INAC, and SFNP, she actively contributes through publications, scientific presentations, and participation in national and international conferences

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