Leading Quality Improvement through Best Practice Guideline Development, Implementation, and Measurement Science

Abstract

Introduction: The quest for evidence-based practice has spurred action by a number of groups worldwide to develop knowledge tools. However, the uptake of knowledge and implementation of clinical practice guidelines in any practice setting requires more than just the awareness and distribution of rigorously developed guidelines. Objective: The objective of this article is to share successful implementation strategies developed by the Best Practice Guideline Program of the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO), that ensure practitioners are fully aware of the best available knowledge and have adequate supports to translate clinical practice guideline recommendations into their day to day practice. Topics: Details of RNAO’s seven stage process of sound guideline development are provided and RNAO’s Best Practice Spotlight Organization® Designation is highlighted as a top implementation strategy that enables organizations to partner with RNAO to implement multiple RNAO Best Practice Guidelines using a systematic planned approach and full participation of staff, with a focus on quality improvement and evaluation. The BPSO Designation is informed by implementation science and is rapidly gaining international acclaim for its effectiveness in creating high levels of nurse and other health provider engagement in quality care, evidence-based practice cultures, and improved health outcomes. Conclusions: Through its leading work in rigorous guideline development, implementation and evaluation, RNAO is successfully transforming nursing practice thorough knowledge on a global scale.[Bajnok I, Grinspun D, Lloyd M, McConnell H. Leading quality improvement through best practice guideline development, implementation, and measurement science. MedUNAB 2015; 17 (3): 155-162]