Assignment requirements
The student is expected to select an area of interest in his/her field of practice that he/she wishes to explore further. Using the steps of the Evidence-based Practice framework1 students will formulate a searchable, answerable question relating to the topic of interest. They will identify the best available evidence to underpin practice in the given area. The quality of the evidence will be established using a hierarchy table (s) and appraised using agreed critiquing protocols. Evidence to inform practice will be presented including a strategic plan detailing how the evidence could be integrated into practice. Barriers and facilitators to integration will be addressed. Tools to evaluate and monitor outcomes of the initiative will be discussed and strategies to disseminate identified.
| Allocation of Marks | ||
| 1. | Provides clear introduction to topic under review. Background information, context specific information & significance of topic outlined. Demonstrates a spirit of inquiry. | 10% |
| 2. | Identifies a clear question on area of interest using a recognised format; highlights all elements of chosen format i.e. PICO(T). | 10%
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| 3. | Illustrates search strategy (e.g. databases, keywords, limiters used, difficulties encountered). Rates quality of key pieces of evidence obtained using hierarchy table. | 10% |
| 4. | Development of ideas in relation to the topic including coherent development of arguments to be progressed. | 5%
|
| 5. | Analyses key pieces of evidence related to topic using agreed protocols and integrate evidence into discussion. Incorporates clinical /practice expertise & client preferences (factors) or implications for clients in discussion. Clear evidence of rationale underpinning decisions/recommendations proposed or practices suggested regarding the topic under review. | 20% |
| 6. | Outlines strategic plan for integration of evidence with clinical /practice expertise and client preferences (as appropriate) to make the best clinical /practice decision. Details how any proposed change to practice / new initiative would be implemented. Barriers /facilitators identified & discussed. | 15% |
| 7. | Provides detailed plan on how the outcome of the practice initiative will be measured and evaluated including ongoing monitoring where applicable. Details how outcomes of initiative will be disseminated to relevant personnel. | 15% |
| 8. | Demonstrates clear and coherent structure overall (introduction, main body, and conclusion) with logical development and progression of the case. | 5% |
| 9. | Referencing technique (Harvard style of referencing) consistent with good presentation overall (proof reading, formatting, editing, spelling and grammar). | 10%
|
1 Seven Steps of Evidence Based Practice (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt 2014).
Step 0 – Cultivate a Spirit of Inquiry.
Step 1 – Formulate the Burning Clinical Question
Step 2 – Search for the Best Evidence.
Step 3 – Critical Appraisal of Evidence.
Step 4 – Integrate the Evidence with Clinical (Practice) Expertise and Patient (client) Preferences (factors) to make the Best Clinical Decision.
Step 5 – Evaluate the Outcomes of the Practice Change based on Evidence.
Step 6 – Disseminate the Outcomes of the Evidence-based Practice Change.
