ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the role of partnerships in Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) with a particular focus upon collaborative research teams. It addresses how partnerships are initiated and developed and examines some of the practical considerations associated with these partnerships. The chapter draws upon the experiences of developing a collaborative research team exploring the management of atrial fibrillation in rural and northern Canada. It presents some examples of the 'living partnership' and reflects on some of the lessons learned to date. To optimize collaboration, a number of factors must be considered including team building, collaborative working, leadership and translating evidence in practice. The integration of best evidence into practice has been widely shown to improve patient outcomes and optimize the use of clinical interventions and healthcare resources. Despite the increasing range of clinical practice guidelines and literature supporting the benefits of EBP, large variations in care exist and much evidence fails to reach the bedside.
