As a lifeline in our quest to bring evidence to the bedside, the Iowa Model of EvidenceBased Practice is an anchor in the mist of uncertainty.
ANNUAL REVIEW:
Iowa Model of EvidenceBased Practice
T
he Iowa Model [1] is a “cookbook” approach to conducting an evidence-based practice (EBP) project. It utilizes the problem-solving steps in the scientific process to provide a logical framework for conducting an EBP project. Widely utilized in multiple clinical settings and interprofessional teams, the Iowa Model is intuitive and easy to follow. Application of the model maximizes the clinician’s time and resources and prevents incomplete implementation of the practice change[2]. In summary, by integrating the Iowa Model into all EBP projects, new evidence is readily adopted into practice and ultimately embedded into the foundation of our nursing organization and culture[3]. (See Appendix A)
10 HOUSTON METHODIST NURSE
The Iowa Model begins by encouraging clinicians to identify a question that is a priority for the organization. Problem-focused (e.g., financial data, clinical problem, process improvement data) or knowledge-focused (e.g., new research data, new guidelines, philosophies of care) are used as catalysts to encourage clinicians to critically think about the efficiency and effectiveness of their clinical and operational work environment and seek a scientific basis for decision-making[1]. Considering then how a topic fits within the organizational priorities will facilitate garnering support both from leadership and other disciplines in order to complete the project. Higher priority topics to consider may address: 1) high-volume, high-risk or high-cost procedures; 2) topics that align with the organization’s strategic plan, and; 3) topics driven by other institutional or market forces (e.g., changing reimbursement)[4].