Making of an evidence champion

The utilization of mentors, or “Evidence Champions,” is an evidence-based strategy for increasing nurses' utilization of evidence in their practice. In order to be effective, Evidence Champions must not only be skilled in the science of locating evidence, rating it for strength and quality, and judging its applicability for practice but also in the art of promoting adoption of evidence-based practice and policy. This presentation describes the recruitment, training, and ongoing support of 37 Evidence Champions from 22 local health departments over a two-year project. The Champion group averaged 12 years in public health; one third were educated at the master's level or higher. Champions participated in an intensive two-day initial training. Monthly conference calls and web-based training were provided to further develop skill in evidence analysis and role progression. Champions were expected to devote two hours per week to their role. The evidence model utilized was an adaptation of the Johns Hopkins' model. This model was selected because it was designed for use by staff nurses and because it is unique in its incorporation of evidence from practice as well as research. This session will highlight the development of the Champions and the evidence-based practice/practice–based evidence model. It will present an analysis of the evolution of the Champion role. The session will demonstrate the evidence database on the website that was designed to expedite the work of the Champions and conclude with implications for utilizing this model to advance evidence-based public health nursing practice.