Evidence-Based Practice vs. Research Utilization

Definition

Research utilization is

  • "A process of using findings from conducting research to guide practice"
  • "The process by which scientifically produced knowledge is transferred to practice" (Barnsteiner & Prevost, 2002)

Differences

Nurses should not confuse EBP with research utilization. While research utilization (RU) overlaps with some of the same philosophic threadworks of EBP, EBP goes beyond just the rigorous scientific research steps.

Research utilization refers to the review and critique of scientific research, and then the application of the findings to clinical practice (Estabrooks, 1998).

Evidence-based practice (EBP) represents a broader concept. When clinicians use the EBP approach, they go beyond the expertise of clinicians and researchers, and consider the patient's preferences and values to guide patient care (Ingersoll, 2000).
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