Implementing evidence-based practice in infection control.

Abstract

Evidence-based practice is seen as a way of providing more effective health care and is considered to be vital in the current healthcare climate. However, in many areas of practice, and specifically in infection control, there is often little or no evidence to back or refute certain practices. This article looks at ritualistic practices, interventions with indirect evidence to support them and practices with overwhelming evidence in their favour which are not always followed. It is concluded that nurses need to integrate the best available evidence with clinical judgment and ensure that available evidence is disseminated appropriately.