Knowledge Gaps in Applying Evidence to Practice

 The DNP scholar, who is seeking to learn more about the different types of inquiry, Research, Quality Improvement, and Evidence-based practice, will bridge the gap between knowledge, research, application, and translation of evidence to nursing practice. There will be interrelationships between nursing practice, education, theory, and research. A systematic review is an important tool for the DNP scholar who is seeking evidence (Polit & Beck, 2017). Dang & Dearholt inform us that systematic reviews utilize meta-synthesis and meta-analysis to analyze the results of several studies. Therefore, these two most reliable methods and the highest standards in evidence-based care could lead the DNP scholar; further determine the effects of nursing interventions, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. Case-controlled studies, case series, and case reports make the DNP do in depth research of individual units, which gives insight into the specific intervention. Cohort studies considered observational studies where the DNP scholar can be able to answer questions on the disease etiology, diagnosis, and prognosis except interventions. DNP scholar uses random control trials to measure the different interventions therefore make the best clinical decision on the outcome of each intervention. Critically appraised individual articles are less reliable however, it helps to assess the outcomes for evidence doing an individual study. Critically appraised topics help to understand the strength of evidence provided and creates an understanding on how to evaluate and synthesize multiple research studies. The least reliable evidence yet helpful for the DNP scholar is the ideas, opinions anecdotes, and editorials. It is crucial as a DNP scholar to understand the pyramid of evidence (all seven levels) and to identify the levels needed for their study.