Introduction
Information bombards us! The student lament used to be, “I can’t find any information on X.” Now the cry
is, “What do I do with all of the information on X?” The focus shifts from finding information to thinking
about how to use and filter information. What information is worth keeping? What should be discarded?
Whatis usefulto clinical practice? Whatis fluff? Where are the gaps?
Thinking aboutthe links between information and practice is criticalto the improvement of the nursing
care we deliver. As each of us strengthens our individual understanding of the links between interventions
and outcomes, we move nursing’s collective practice closer to being truly evidence-based. We can “know”
what intervention works best in what situation.
“Helping people get better safely and efficiently” begins with thinking. Our intent is that the activities in
the Study Guide will help you strengthen your skills in thinking about information found in the literature.
The activities are designed to assist you in evaluating the research you read so you are prepared to undertake the critical analysis of research studies. As you practice the appraisal skills addressed in this Study
Guide, youwill be strengthening your ability to make evidence-based practice decisions grounded in
theory and research.
What an incredible time to be a nurse!
GENERAL DIRECTIONS
1. We recommend that you read the textbook chapter first, then complete the Study Guide activities for
that chapter.
2. Complete each Study Guide chapter in order. The Study Guide is designed so that you build on the
knowledge gained in Chapter 1 to complete the activities in Chapter 2, and so forth. The activities are
designed to give you the opportunity to apply the knowledge learned in the textbook and actually use
this knowledge to solve problems, thereby gaining increased confidence that comes only from working
through each chapter.
3. Follow the specific directions that precede each activity. Be certain that you have the resources needed
to complete the activity before you begin.
4. Take the posttest in each Study Guide chapter after you have completed all of the chapter’s activities.
The answers for the posttestitems can be found in the answer key. If you answer 85% of the questions
correctly, be confident that you have grasped the essential material presented in the chapter.
5. Clarify any questions, confusion, or concerns you may have with your instructor.
ACTIVITY ANSWERS ARE IN THE BACK OF THIS BOOK
Answers in aworkbook such as this do notfollow a formula like answers in a math book. Many times
you are asked to make a judgment about a particular problem.If your judgment differs from that ofthe
authors, review the criteria that you used to make your decision. Determine if you followed a logical prorved. i