Evidence-based Practice in Nursing

by Peter Ellis

Overview

Evidence-based practice is central to safe, high-quality and effective nursing. Written in clear, straightforward language, this book introduces students to the relevant theory and terminology and builds their understanding of how to apply evidence to practice. They'll learn how to evaluate different sources of evidence, apply it to their clinical decision making and, ultimately, contribute to an evidence-based culture in their workplace.

Key features

- Fully updated in line with contemporary evidence and practice, including the use of AI

- Each chapter is mapped to the NMC standards, showing how the content relates to the requirements of a registered nurse

- Filled with activities and real-world case studies to help students understand how to identify, evaluate and implement evidence-based practice

- Promotes an evidence-based culture in all aspects of nursing practice, supporting professional identity and development

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781036230081
Publisher:	SAGE Publications
Publication date:	05/18/2026
Series:	Transforming Nursing Practice Series
Edition description:	Sixth edition
Pages:	216
Product dimensions:	6.73(w) x 9.68(h) x (d)

About the Author

Peter Ellis is an independent nursing and health and social care writer and consultant, and CEO of Intelligent Care Software. He is also an Expert Witness for nursing and social care. Peter was most recently a Registered Manager and Nursing Director in the Hospice and social care settings. Prior to this, he was a senior lecturer and programme director at Canterbury Christ Church University where he taught understanding research, among other topics, to undergraduate and postgraduate nursing students. Peter is also an Honorary Senior Research Fellow of Canterbury Christ Church University and has a special interest, including ongoing research, in palliative and end-of-life care

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: What is evidence-based nursing?
Chapter 2: Sources of knowledge for evidence-based care
Chapter 3: Critiquing research: general points
Chapter 4: Critiquing research: approach-specific elements
Chapter 5: Making sense of subjective experience
Chapter 6: Working with others to achieve evidence-based care
Chapter 7: Clinical decision making in evidence-based nursing
Chapter 8: Using evidence in the workplace

Editorial Reviews

The set of books is an excellent resource for students. The series is small, easily portable and and valuable. I use the whole set on a regular basis.

Fiona Davies

This text is a useful companion for the students as they develop through the programme. The chapters are supported by useful references and web links for them to further develop their reading. It is very readable and students will be able to dip in and out in relation to their assignment, practice placement or issue of interest.

Caroline E Gibson

Praise for Previous Edition

'This book is an excellent text for students at all stages of their course, either for introducing or developing their understanding of Evidence-based practice. It is easy to read and identifies resources for the readers to access' -

Karen Hayward, University Campus Suffolk

'An excellent text, I have recommended it to the students who are undertaking my Evidence Based Health Care & Research Module. Thank you' -
Lisa Whiting, University of Hertfordshire

'An excellent introductory text for those students moving on from understanding research methods, to critiquing and evaluating the evidence. A great companion volume to Ellis' Understanding Research for Nursing Students' -

Anji Waring, University of Plymouth

'An excellent text which will guide the student to understand the importance of evidence in application to nursing practice. The case studies are particularly helpful in demonstrating the link to nursing practice' -
Marguerita Leyden, University of Salford

From the Publisher

The book deconstructs what is thought of by most as a complex topic, it does so by offering bite sized chunks and provides excellent insights how to apply this in practice...This book is aimed at students on degree courses. It would certainly be of benefit to nurses who perhaps have not undertaken a module or course in evidence based practice, acting as a practical guide to enhance the development of practice.

Liz Lees

The need for an evidence base for nursing is widely accepted. However, what constitutes evidence and how nurses might apply it to practice is not always clear. This book guides nursing students through the process of identifying, appraising and applying evidence in nursing practice. It explores a wide range of differing sources of evidence and knowledge, and helps students to develop key skills of critiquing research and using evidence in clinical decision-making.

Brett Holmes