Una Hopkins

Montefiore Medical Center Bronx, NY, USA

Abstract Title: Enhancing the Culture of Evidence-Based Practice with Ovid Synthesis: Simplifying Research and Transforming Nursing Practice

Biography:

Una Hopkins completed her DNP in 2012 and has been a successful researcher and advocate for Evidence Based Practice. Her nursing career spans four decades and many roles including Nurse Practitioner, researcher and administrator.

Research Interest:

The integration of evidence-based practice (EBP) into clinical settings is essential for improving patient outcomes and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in healthcare. However, the translation of research into practice and the completion of EBP projects can be challenging for bedside nurses due to time constraints, limited resources, and a lack of research expertise. The introduction of Ovid Synthesis, a comprehensive toolkit designed to support EBP initiatives, offers a transformative solution by streamlining the research process and enhancing accessibility to evidence-based resources. This abstract explores the use of Ovid Synthesis to empower nurses in conducting and implementing EBP projects. The platform’s intuitive design facilitates every stage of the EBP process, from formulating clinical questions using the PICOT framework to synthesizing and appraising evidence. By providing seamless access to high-quality, peer-reviewed literature and user-friendly templates for project documentation, Ovid Synthesis reduces barriers to initiating and completing research. Additionally, the toolkit's collaborative features promote interdisciplinary teamwork, enabling nurses to engage effectively with colleagues and mentors throughout the research journey. A pilot program was implemented within an acute care hospital to evaluate the impact of Ovid Synthesis on nursing practice. The program trained nurses to utilize the platform to address clinical challenges and improve patient care outcomes. Preliminary results indicate a significant increase in the number of completed EBP projects, enhanced nurse confidence in utilizing research, and improved dissemination of findings across the organization. Feedback from participants highlighted the platform’s role in reducing the perceived complexity of EBP and fostering a stronger culture of inquiry. Ovid Synthesis serves as a catalyst for embedding EBP into nursing practice. The platform equips nurses with the tools needed to drive meaningful change and achieve sustainable improvements in patient outcomes. Further studies are recommended to expand the implementation of Ovid Synthesis across diverse healthcare settings and evaluate its long-term impact on organizational culture and clinical practice.