Evidence Based Practice Summary

In healthcare today, it has become more apparent that evidence-based practice (EBP) is essential to incorporate into every facility, but nurse leaders have noted difficulties during the implementation process. Therefore, Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt recommend that practice changes should be guided by conceptual models and frameworks (2015). In order to effectively integrate EBP into facilities, eight models were created. Within this discussion, the Evidence-Based Advancing Research and Clinic Practice through Close Collaboration (ARCC) Model will be investigated (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2015).
In 1999, the ARCC model was conceptualized in order to provide healthcare facilities with an organized framework to guide system-wide implementation

of EBP to achieve quality outcomes. Some of the principles that guide the ARCC model include control theory and cognitive behavioral theory. First, control theory theorizes that when there is a discrepancy between system-wide EBP implementation and the current state the facility is in during the implementation process should motivate providers’ behaviors to reach the goal. Unfortunately, many barriers exist that create hazards in the implementation process. Within the ARCC model, EBP mentors, or providers that are experts in that specific EBP, are integrated into the facility (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2015).
In addition, the ARCC model is based on the knowledge that when providers’ beliefs about their ability to implement EBP are strengthened through education and skills building, the implementation process will be more successful. Thus, EBP mentors are matched with providers in order to strengthen their beliefs about the value of EBP. However, before the ARCC model can be implemented; healthcare facilities are assessed for their current belief and readiness for EBP implementation. When the assessment period is over, the model is implemented over a 12-month period and is spread out into a series of six workshops. These workshops consist of eight days of educational and skills building sessions. Overall, the ARCC model has proven to provide sufficient education, tools, and support to increase the successful implementation of EBP (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2015).