{
  "abstract": "Background Evidence-based practice is the integration of the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values to guide decision-making and improve patient outcomes (Melnyk, Fineout-Overholt. Evidence-based practice in nursing & healthcare: a guide to best practice. 5th ed. Wolters Kluwer; 2023). The evidence-based practice initiative is embedded within the Academic Unit of Palliative Care.Aims To foster a culture where evidence-based practice is embedded in clinical care, empowering staff to apply evidence-based practice principles in the delivery of high-quality, person-centred care.Methods The evidence-based practice initiative started 10 years ago and the format has developed over the years. Currently there is a monthly multi-professional meeting to support the integration of evidence-based practice across the hospice. This is joint chaired by Medical and Nurse Consultants, with an average attendance of 8-10 staff from across disciplines. The group oversees the hospice clinical audit, guideline and monthly teaching programmes. Learning from audits is disseminated using a variety of methods, including the learning bulletin, teaching sessions and changes in policy and practice.Results From the several audits undertaken annually, an example which has led to a change in practice is the Mouthcare Audit on the IPU. The electronic care plan template was amended, and a mouthcare group formed to review the guideline and deliver teaching sessions. Over the last year, twelve guidelines were reviewed and updated as part of the guideline programme including:Corticosteroids in palliative care; Management of acute kidney injury; Terminal agitation.Monthly ‘Lunch and Learn’ is aimed at all staff, sessions have included: Self-management strategies of Fatigue and Anxiety; Role of the Medical Examiner; Eye donation.Conclusion Evidence-based practice is integral to the high quality care provided to patients and families. Using the methods outlined above we continue to strive for excellence. We would like to widen membership, and ensure all staff are encouraged to understand why we practice in the way we do, and have the confidence to question and challenge each other.",
  "authors": [
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "St Gemma’s Hospice, Leeds, UK"
      ],
      "name": "Nicky Hibbert"
    },
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "St Gemma’s Hospice, Leeds, UK"
      ],
      "name": "Karen Neoh"
    }
  ],
  "title": "P-184 Improving outcomes: the role of evidence-based practice in specialist palliative care",
  "uid": "2696bda1-95f1-505f-983c-8058a93f3aac"
}