ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the evidence-based nursing with specific reference to the importance, relevance and application for neonatal nurses. It aims to establish how the concept was developed, and its transition from medical to nursing practice. Historically, nurses relied upon experience and expert opinion to guide clinical practice. The concept of evidence-based practice (EBP) was developed to bridge the gap between scientific and theoretical knowledge, and clinical practice. Neonatal nurses need to balance the technical aspects of working in an intensive care area with the compassion of a caring profession, so it is important that the clinical question they need to answer is reflected in the methodologies and methods that are chosen. Empirical, scientific knowledge and EBP need to form the basis for undergraduate qualification and post-qualification practice. Evidence-based neonatal nursing practice has evolved as the best approach to promote quality outcomes for NNU patients through the balanced integration of research, clinical experience and patient preference.
