Applying evidence to palliative care

OBJECTIVES: To discuss the evidence-based practice process for palliative care, from defining a clinical problem to implementation and evaluation of an evidence-based practice change. DATA SOURCES: Professional experience, literature, practice guidelines, and web sites related to evidence-based practice and palliative care. CONCLUSION: Nurses caring for patients needing palliative care need evidence from multiple sources. Using a systematic process to find and appraise evidence followed by strategically planning for implementation and evaluation of evidence-based practice changes optimizes the likelihood of enhanced patient care. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: The integration of evidence-based practices into palliative care nursing will empower nurses to promote optimal patient outcomes and decrease practice variability.