Nurses from several different units at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics look for ways to solve common problems and improve patient care. The projects cover a variety of areas, from family pet therapy to improving the comfort of patients on ventilators. The nurses use evidence-based practices to do this, finding new ways to treat common problems and then measuring the success of those new practices.

"We really think this is a program that sets us apart in terms of nursing practice. We have a lot of interest around the country from this program, so it is something unique to our health care system," said Marita Titler, Ph. D.,UI Nursing Services and Patient Care.

"I’ve been a nurse here for 18 years. It’s been a wonderful experience. It’s been an empowering experience. You really feel like you’re making a difference," said Ronda Drahozal, R. N., UI Hospitals and Clinics nurse.

The nurses believe this is a much faster way to implement new ideas and new practices. They also say it makes them feel more involved in their work:

"This kind of project is extremely important for nurses. It lets staff nurses feel they are indeed making a difference in people’s lives," said Natalie Van Waning, R. N., UI Hospitals and Clinics nurse.

"It’s been a professional growth for myself. It’s been a great experience," said Jane Greiner, R.N., UI Hospitals and Clinics nurse.

The UI Health Care nurses were honored recently for their work on these projects. It also gave them a chance to share their findings with colleagues. Many hope more nurses become involved in this evidence-based practice program, so other health care problems can be solved.

It takes about 12 months to successfully complete one of these evidence-based improvements in nursing practice. Many of the findings are published in health care journals and shared at regional and national conferences.

For more information:

Department of Nursing