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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The service and sacrifices of the global nursing community is the bedrock on which the edifice of modern healthcare rests and despite all that the nursing community does, their efforts are often left unrecognized and their role under-appreciated. 

As a generation we expect instant results, and our results are largely measured in economic value. This trend has resulted in formulating a perception that nursing is a cost-centre rather than a profit-centre. While, there is a considerable importance accorded to patient-centric care, somehow, ironically those that are closest to the patients – the nurses – seem to be increasingly forgotten altogether in the process.

It is imperative to realize that the nursing function is a profit-centre for every healthcare institution as well as the society. Without excellence in nursing care it is impossible to have a patient-centric, patient-focused healthcare institution or society. Nurses are at the heart of the healthcare system and more so in today’s time where patient-centric care is what is expected and implemented

As a Group Director-Nursing, I have witnessed firsthand the need for systemic changes that empower nurses, ensure salary equity, and promote professional development. 

Empowering nurses is paramount to improving healthcare delivery. Empowerment involves giving nurses the authority and confidence to make decisions that directly impact patient care. This can be achieved through several means like various leadership opportunities where the nurses should be encouraged to take on leadership roles within their organizations. This not only boosts their confidence but also ensures that their valuable insights are considered in decision-making processes.

Nurses should have the professional autonomy to make clinical decisions based on their expertise and judgment. This not only enhances patient outcomes but also increases job satisfaction among nurses.

Recognizing the contributions of nurses and treating them with respect fosters a positive work environment. This path can be transversed through regular acknowledgment of their hard work and achievements.

One of the most pressing issues in the nursing profession is salary disparity. Nurses often face significant pay gaps compared to their counterparts, particularly doctors. Addressing salary equity involves competitive salaries to ensure that nurses receive competitive salaries that reflect their education, experience, and the demanding nature of their work.

Implementing transparent pay structures that are based on clear criteria such as experience, education, and job performance. This helps eliminate biases and ensures fairness.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and it is imperative that nurses stay updated with the latest knowledge and skills. Professional development and continuing education should be prioritized through providing nurses with access to ongoing training programs that cover the latest advancements in medical science and technology.

Effective communication is crucial in healthcare settings to ensure seamless coordination and high-quality patient care. Improving communication among nurses involves encouraging collaboration between nurses and other healthcare professionals to enhance patient care and ensure that nurses’ perspectives are valued.

Fostering a collaborative work culture where nurses are treated at par with doctors and other healthcare professionals will create an ambience of a better healthcare environment. This setup will ensure recognition of their expertise, valuing their contributions, and ensuring they have a voice in decision-making processes. Achieving professional parity involves developing policies that promote inclusivity and ensure that nurses have equal opportunities for advancement and recognition.

Ensuring that nurses are represented in healthcare boards and committees, allowing them to influence policies and decisions that affect their profession and patient care.

The nursing profession is integral to the success of the healthcare system. It is time for healthcare organizations, policymakers, and society as a whole to recognize and address the challenges faced by nurses, paving the way for a stronger, more effective healthcare system.

Investing in nurses – at every level – education, empowerment, and enhancement is the urgent need of the hour. Strategic and financial investments, empowerment & encouragement, and recognition and rewards are a must if we wish to preserve and promote patient-centric care.Give them time to learn, to adapt, and grow and then watch the roses of excellence in patient care blossom not just in our hospital, our city,but across the nation and the globe. 

Author’s Biography

Ms. Bobby Ramesh is presently the group leader for Nursing in Sarvodaya Healthcare. With a long career in nursing healthcare in the field of Clinical,teaching and administrative experience showcase an enriching career. He also has an experience in NABH as Principal Assessor.

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