Building and Sustaining Evidence‐Based Practice Through a Scholars Program

BACKGROUND: Integrating evidence-based practice (EBP) into nursing is critical for improving clinical outcomes, yet adoption remains limited due to ongoing individual and organizational barriers. PURPOSE: The EBP Scholars Program was developed to overcome barriers and foster a culture of evidence-based nursing practice within a pediatric healthcare system. IMPLEMENTATION: Launched in 2007 during the organization's Magnet journey, the program is grounded in scientific, educational, and implementation science principles. Selected through a competitive application process, scholars engage in a seven-month structured curriculum grounded in the 8 A's Model of EBP. Learning outcomes are evaluated using pre- and post-program scores on the Evidence-Based Practice Knowledge Assessment Questionnaire (EBP-KAQ). OUTCOMES AND IMPACT: The program has enrolled 147 participants and graduated 124. On average, participants increased their EBP knowledge by 15.7%. Scholar-led projects have led to over 40 policy updates, new care guidelines, and measurable quality and safety improvements. Graduates have produced 43 posters, 18 podium presentations, and 9 peer-reviewed publications. LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION: The EBP Scholars Program offers a scalable model for embedding EBP in healthcare. Through strategic leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and structured mentorship, it has advanced evidence-based care, professional development, and a culture of continuous improvement.