Answer

Research Utilization and Evidence Based Practice

Research entails a systematic and scientific inquiry with a purpose to answer particular test hypothesis or research questions using rigorous and highly disciplined methods. Research utilization refers to the synthesizing and dissemination of the research oriented knowledge in creating an impact in current practices. Evidence based practice (EBP) goes beyond the use and utilization of research as it entails clinical expertise and patient values and preferences. While research utilization is typically about applying evidence to practice, policies and relevant programs with the goal of improving outcomes, evidence based research entails innovation of findings as well as translation of best evidence into clinical practice. Although most of the evidence does stem from research utilization, there is a distinct difference between research utilization and evidence based practice.

Research utilization employs a number of strategies including a collaborative research and stakeholder engagement, advocacy and communication as well as the application of champions in the use of literature facts. Unlike research utilization, EBP does not validate the existing knowledge. It instead focuses on the translation of evidence, by applying it during clinical decision making to ensure that the most appropriate evidence is made available during care decision making.

EBP takes into consideration that on given occasions, the best evidence is extracted from expert or leader opinions despite there being no definitive knowledge from research results. On the other hand, research utilization is majorly about facilitating the use of various experiences from practice to inform new and better research agendas, evidence based practice focuses on innovations in terms of findings as well as translation of best evidence into clinical practice. Unlike EBP, research utilization is a toolkit designed to enable practitioners and researchers bridge the knowledge-to-practice gap. However, both approaches are essential in any form of practice.