Theory-Practice Gap (Essay Sample)

Theory Practice Gap Student's Name University Affiliation Professor's Name Course Title Due Date Concept Map Theory-Practice Gap and Its Impact on Nursing Practice and Patient Care In the provided case study, the theory-practice gap is evident in the way the nurse approaches suctioning. While suctioning the patient’s thick secretions, the experienced nurse installs saline into the endotracheal tube. This practice deviates from the provisions of evidence-based guidelines. Evidence has revealed that saline installation during suctioning is no longer recommended due to the potential risks it poses (Jahromi et al., 2022). These risks involve potential damage to the mucosal lining and heightened patient discomfort. It could also increase the risk of infections. There are several potential negative impacts of this gap on nursing practice and patient care. Firstly, the safety of the patient is compromised. Extensive evidence from practice has revealed saline instillation during suctioning can lead to adverse effects such as bronchospasm (Jahromi et al., 2022). Doing so may also potentially damage the delicate respiratory epithelium. In the case study, the patient is already fragile, having had a coronary artery graft bypass. In addition, the patient has a history of chronic pulmonary disease. The patient also has a history of heavy smoking, which exacerbates the pulmonary disease. Given the prevailing condition of the client, the procedure carried out by the nurse increases the likelihood of complications. Consequently, the procedure could potentially prolong the recovery time and even cause death in severe circumstances. The resulting complications also exacerbate the cost associated with the treatment process. The ensuing theory-practice gap also undermines the quality of nursing care. Nursing care should be based on scientific evidence. In the case study, the experienced nurse does a procedure that deviates from evidence-based practice. Adhering to evidence-based practices not only enhances the standardization of practice but also promotes positive patient outcomes (Zieber & Wojtowicz, 2020). When a healthcare provider diverts from evidence-based practice, it has the potential to erode their credibility. It also interferes with their professionalism. Such deviation may also raise serious legal and ethical implications. In case clinical harm befalls the client due to the procedure, both the nurse and healthcare organization may face serious legal implications. Consequently, the theory-practice gap in the case scenario diverts from best clinical practices. The theory-practice gap could potentially interfere with interdisciplinary collaboration. In the healthcare setting, different members of the care team should work collaboratively to maximize positive patient outcomes. For this collaboration to be successful, each member of the team should maintain high levels of professionalism. Healthcare teams rely on the use of evidence-based practices to enhance collaboration and coordination (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2022). The negligence portrayed by the experienced nurse in the case study is likely to injure the appropriate collaboration. The resultant tension precipitates tensions among the team, hindering effective communication and collaboration. The breakdown is likely to negatively affect the efficient provision of care. Plan to Close the Gaps and Improve Patient Outcomes Closing the theory-practice gap requires a multifaceted approach. The approach should integrate theory, research and practice. The closure of the gap would go a long way in maximizing positive patient outcomes. The following are some of the measures to take to close the gap. The first would be instituting proper education and training. There should be ongoing education and training on evidence-based practices. The education/ training should target nursing staff and should include evidence-based practices on respiratory care, such as suctioning techniques. The education sessions should emphasize the rationale behind the evidence-based practices. The training should also highlight the risks associated with deviations from the guidelines. Further, the trainings need to remind the nurses of the importance of staying up to date with current research and guidelines. The second measure should be establishing clinical guidelines and development. It is essential to develop and implement clinical guidelines on suctioning and respiratory care. The guidelines should be based on best practices and evidence-based protocols. These guidelines must be accessible to all nursing staff. The guidelines should also be regularly updated as new evidence emerges. The guidelines should provide a step-by-step process on how to perform suctioning and provide appropriate nursing care. The third measure should be fostering appropriate interdisciplinary collaboration. This collaboration should occur between personnel from nursing, respiratory therapy and other healthcare disciplines. The collaboration would help ensure adherence to best practices. As part of the collaboration, it is essential to have interdisciplinary meetings to m...