For patient health and safety, it is essential that nurses follow evidence-based practice. Here are some examples of its application:
- Infection control. Evidence-based infection-control policies exist in every medical setting and its importance has been continually reiterated during the COVID-19 pandemic. This EBP includes keeping the healthcare environment clean and disinfected, wearing personal protective clothing, using barrier precautions, and practicing correct handwashing.
- Oxygen use in COPD patients. Based on well-researched evidence, the correct treatment to help prevent hypoxia (low oxygen in the blood) and organ failure in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is to administer oxygen.
- Treatment for angina. Extensive research has concluded multiple treatment options to effectively manage angina, including nitrates, clot-preventing drugs, beta blockers, statins, and aspirin.