NURS FPX 4030 Assessment 2 Determining the Credibility of Evidence and Resources

NURS FPX 4030 Assessment 2 Determining the Credibility of Evidence and Resources

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Capella university

NURS-FPX 4030 Making Evidence-Based Decisions

Prof. Name

Date

Determining the Credibility of Evidence and Resources

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common medical diagnosis affecting millions of individuals worldwide. In this assessment, we delve into the importance of evidence-based research (EBR) to increase the knowledge base regarding the disease, elaborating the criteria to evaluate the credibility of the resources. This paper also discusses the evidence-based practice model by integrating credible evidence related to COPD. 

COPD and Evidence-based Approach

COPD is a developing lung disease that results in respiratory uneasiness due to airway restriction. Approximately 14.2 million individuals in the United States suffered from this disease in 2021, becoming the sixth leading cause of mortality within the nation (Liu, 2023). The primary causes of COPD include long-term exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke, environmental pollutants, and occupational dust and chemicals. The disease can significantly impact the quality of life, leading to frequent exacerbations, hospitalizations, and higher healthcare costs. Thus, effective management requires a multifaceted approach that integrates evidence-based practices (EBP). 

EBP is an organized approach to clinical decision-making that integrates the best available research data, clinical judgment, and patient needs and values (Naz & Ganaie, 2023). Applying an evidence-based approach to COPD management is crucial for several reasons. It ensures that the care provided is grounded in the best available research. For instance, a study by Fu et al. (2022) highlighted the importance of evidence-based guidelines to manage COPD and its exacerbations, providing a practice review of various articles that illustrate these guidelines.

Additionally, EBP promotes standardized care practices, ensuring consistency in the management of diseases across different healthcare settings (Naz & Ganaie, 2023). This approach not only benefits patients but also supports healthcare professionals in staying updated with current research and best practices, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the clinical environment.

Criteria to Assess the Credibility of Resources

When evaluating the credibility and relevance of journal articles and websites, several criteria should be considered, collectively known as the CRAAP test: Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose (Esparrago-Kalidas, 2021). While currency involves assessing the timeliness of the information, ensuring it is up-to-date and reflects the latest research and practices, relevance examines how closely the information meets the research topic, ensuring its applicability. Thirdly, authority considers the credentials and qualifications of the authors or organizations providing the information, ensuring they are recognized experts in the field. Moreover, accuracy evaluates the reliability and correctness of the content, ensuring it is supported by evidence and free of bias or errors. Finally, the purpose assesses the intent behind the information, ensuring it aligns with an objective and balanced perspective. 

Application of CRAAP Criteria to the Source

The article by Fu et al. (2022) has been published in the last two years, ensuring that the information is current and reflects the latest research and management approaches for severe COPD. This article directly addresses evidence-based strategies to manage COPD, making it highly relevant to the research topic. Furthermore, the authors are associated with reputable institutions and have expertise in palliative care and COPD management. Their credentials and affiliations add authority to the resource. The article is published in a peer-reviewed journal, which suggests a rigorous review process ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the information presented. Lastly, the purpose of the article is to inform and educate healthcare professionals about the best practices for managing severe COPD based on evidence-based approaches. 

Credible and Relevant Sources of Information

The available literature on COPD has several resources that fulfill the CRAAP criteria. Below are a few examples: 

  1. Kahnert et al. (2023) is a credible resource that was published in 2023, ensuring it includes the latest research and developments in COPD diagnosis and treatment. The resources directly address the diagnosis and treatment of the disease, along with its comorbidities, making it highly relevant for clinicians managing COPD patients and researchers seeking knowledge about the disease. The authors are reputable researchers with expertise in respiratory medicine, and the publication in a peer-reviewed journal further adds to its authority. Moreover, the article has unbiased information with an adequate number of supporting evidence, vetting for its accuracy and reliability. Finally, the article aims to inform and educate healthcare professionals about comprehensive COPD management, aligning with the goals of evidence-based practices. 
  2. Another resource by Cravo et al. (2022) provides current insights into COPD self-management, reflecting contemporary research and practices. The recent publication date ensures the inclusion of the latest evidence and recommendations relevant to self-management in COPD. The article focuses on the critical aspect of self-management for COPD patients, making it highly relevant for providers aiming to improve patient outcomes through individualized care plans. Additionally, the authors are credible researchers in the field of COPD and personalized care. Their combined expertise ensures the reliability of the information presented. The article’s inclusion in a peer-reviewed journal ensures that it has been thoroughly reviewed for accuracy and validity. Lastly, the purpose of the article is to highlight the importance of self-management in COPD care, aiming to educate healthcare professionals on integrating personalized care strategies to enhance patient outcomes. This not only promotes evidence-based practice but also emphasizes patient-centered care and patient engagement. 

NURS FPX 4030 Assessment 2 Determining the Credibility of Evidence and Resources

While both articles provide valuable, credible, and relevant information on COPD, the article by Kahnert et al. (2023) stands out as the most useful resource for healthcare professionals seeking to improve their COPD management practices. It offers a more holistic view, encompassing a broader range of issues pertinent to COPD care.

Incorporating Credible Evidence into an EBP Model (JHNEBP)

Incorporating authentic and reliable information from scholarly and website articles into an EBP model is crucial for delivering high-quality patient care to COPD patients. The model provides a systematic approach to using credible evidence to improve patient outcomes care quality, and enhance patient safety. EBP integrates clinical expertise with the latest scientific evidence and patient preferences, promoting effective and efficient care (Naz & Ganaie, 2023). This approach reduces variability in care and ensures that all patients receive the most effective and proven interventions. Ultimately, using credible evidence within an EBP model supports continual improvement and fosters a culture of excellence in healthcare.

In this case, we apply the Johns Hopkins Evidence-Based Practice (JHEBP) model to improve the management of COPD significantly. This model is a structured approach to solving problems and making explicit clinical decisions using three steps – Practice question, Evidence, and Translation (PET) process (Brunt & Morris, 2023). For example, in this case, the practice question is related to the understanding and management of COPD patients. This practice question would help nurses search for and appraise the most current and relevant evidence.

Studies and guidelines from credible sources like PubMed or the Cochrane Library can inform practice changes. In the next step, the nurses and researchers can gather evidence from studies and guidelines, ensuring the use of credible sources like PubMed or the Cochrane Library to inform practice changes. Finally, the model allows for translating the information into actionable insights for better management of patients, leading to improved patient outcomes such as fewer hospitalizations, better symptom management, and enhanced quality of life. This methodical approach facilitates the consistent application of best practices, fostering better patient outcomes and advancing overall care quality.

Conclusion 

In summary, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease significantly impacts patient quality of life and healthcare systems, necessitating effective management strategies. Thus, an evidence-based approach is crucial for improving COPD outcomes, as it ensures care is grounded in the latest research, enhancing treatment efficacy and patient safety. By finding credible resources using the CRAAP criteria, nurses and other healthcare providers can utilize effective and proven interventions for COPD patients. Integrating up-to-date research, clinical expertise, and patient preferences allows healthcare providers to deliver standardized, high-quality COPD care, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the global disease burden. 

References

Brunt, B. A., & Morris, M. M. (2023). Nursing professional development evidence-based practice. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK589676/ 

Cravo, A., Attar, D., Freeman, D., Holmes, S., Ip, L., & Singh, S. J. (2022). The importance of self-management in the context of personalized care in COPD. International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease17(17), 231–243. https://doi.org/10.2147/COPD.S343108 

NURS FPX 4030 Assessment 2 Determining the Credibility of Evidence and Resources

Esparrago-Kalidas, A. J. (2021). The effectiveness of CRAAP test in evaluating credibility of sources. International Journal of TESOL & Education1(2), 1–14. https://i-jte.org/index.php/journal/article/view/25 

Fu, Y., Chapman, E. J., Boland, A. C., & Bennett, M. I. (2022). Evidence-based management approaches for patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A practice review. Palliative Medicine36(5), 770–782. https://doi.org/10.1177/02692163221079697

Kahnert, K., Jörres, R. A., Behr, J., & Welte, T. (2023). The diagnosis and treatment of COPD and its comorbidities. PubMed120(25), 434–444. https://doi.org/10.3238/arztebl.m2023.027 

Liu, Y. (2023). Trends in the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among adults aged ≥18 years — United States, 2011–2021.  Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report72(46). https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7246a1

Naz, H., & Ganaie, N. A. (2023). Evidence-based practice in nursing: A comprehensive review. Clinical Medicine and Health Research Journal3(6), 713–715. https://doi.org/10.18535/cmhrj.v3i6.254 

NURS FPX 4030 Assessment 2 Determining the Credibility of Evidence and Resources