Authors

  1. Bond, Donna MSN, RN-BC, CCNS, AE-C

Article Content

Purpose/Objectives:

The objectives of this study were to describe the components of an integrative literature review, review examples of rating evidence, and provide tools for use in literature review and evaluation.

 

Significance:

Nursing is now a more research-based practice. The clinical nurse specialist (CNS) provides a vital role in assimilation of the literature and evaluation of the significance of the literature to improve patient outcomes.

 

Design/Background/Rationale:

In the past 20 years, healthcare literature has exploded with research. Some studies are scientifically performed, and the data are reported accurately. Other studies, even those published in reputable journals, may not have the same research rigor applied. It is within the CNS role to obtain the latest findings and interpret this research for nursing and other healthcare providers.

 

Methods/Description:

This presentation will discuss the steps of an integrated literature review, including databases, Web searches, and other types of information that can be used. Styles of tables to assimilate the information will be presented, with tips on individualization. Finally, examples of classification systems used to rank evidence including the Iowa model, US Preventative Services, Quigley, Oxford, and McMaster will be discussed.

 

Findings/Outcomes:

This presentation will prepare the CNS to assimilate and evaluate the literature in a systematic manner. This skill will enhance changing the organizational culture and help bridge gaps in quality outcomes.

 

Conclusions:

Information was included in the Outcomes section.

 

Implications for Practice:

The CNS should be tools to assimilate and evaluate research. This will allow dissemination of research in a meaningful manner. Information presented may also be presented to nursing staff to increase awareness of evidence-based practice.

 

Section Description

The 2009 NACNS National Conference will be held in St Louis, Missouri, on March 5 to 7. More than 350 clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), graduate faculty, nurse administrators, nurse researchers, and graduate students are registered. This year's theme, "Clinical Nurse Specialists: Vision, Value, Voice," demonstrates the essential leadership skills of the CNS as well as the CNS role in implementing evidence-based practice.

 

Seventy abstracts were selected for either podium or poster presentations. Again, this year, there is a CNS student poster session. The abstracts addressed CNS practice in 3 practice domains (spheres of influence), emphasizing patient safety and quality care outcomes, leadership, evidence-based practice, and new ways to shape CNS practice. Topics include CNS work activities incorporated into 3 spheres of influence-patients, nursing practice, organization/system-including the development of clinical inquiry skills among staff nurses, use of simulation technology, strategies to maintain clinical excellence, CNS practice in end-of-life care decisions, and many new and thoughtful ideas to support CNS education, practice, and research. Collectively, the abstracts represent the breadth, depth, and richness of the CNSs' contribution to the well-being of individuals, families, communities, as well as to the advancement of the nursing profession.

 

The conference abstracts were published here to facilitate sharing this emerging new knowledge with those who were unable to attend the conference. As you read each abstract, appreciate the intellectual talent and clinical scholarship of your CNS colleagues who are advancing the practice of nursing and contributing to the health of society through improved outcomes for patients and healthcare organizations. We encourage you to contact individual presenters to network, collaborate, consult, or share your thoughts and ideas on the conference topics. Watch out for next year's call for abstracts and consider submitting for presentation at NACNS' next annual conference in Portland, Oregon, on March 4 to 6, 2010.