Using the Iowa Model for Promoting Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) in Nursing: Preventing Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection (CAUTI)

Studies to explain models to guide the implementation of EBP are necessary to help the practical implementation of EBP in Korean nursing settings. PURPOSE: This study describes the utilization of the Iowa Model to implement EBP for preventing CAUTI in a hospital using a case study. METHOD: The project in the case study was to implement an evidence-based practice protocol to prevent CAUTI in an actual hospital, which became the first hospital in the state to receive Magnet Status for Nursing. A multidisciplinary team used the Iowa Model for EBP to change their nursing practice related to the prevention of CAUTI. RESULTS: As a method of preventing CAUTI, a new nursing protocol for indwelling urinary catheter discontinuation was implemented in this hospital. The results of a pilot study showed the use of this new protocol decreased catheter days. As a result, the team decided to implement the nursing protocol in all units of the hospital. CONCLUSION: The study supports that the Iowa Model is a good frame work to help the implementation of EBP in a hospital. In addition, the role of advanced nurse practitioners and organizational support to complete EBP implementation were discussed.