Final Scholarly Capstone Paper
The Clinical Application Project (CAP) is an evidence-based practice project in which the Capstone student identifies an issue, topic, or challenge that is relevant to their chosen nursing topic. The student will analyze the currently available research evidence related to their chosen topic to develop a potential solution or change in clinical practice. Basically, the CAP takes students through the steps of EBP from identification of a clinical issue needing change and developing an implementation plan for a clinical practice change based on the best available evidence.
The final paper will include the information from the draft that was corrected or enhanced based on feedback from the instructor. All parts of the draft are included in the final EBP paper with the addition of a scholarly development and discussion of the search strategy, critical appraisal of the literature, pertinent findings from the body of evidence, clinical recommendation(s), and a solid conclusion relating specifically to the topic chosen (and a facility if working with a mentor from a facility). The CAP must include a change or improvement in clinical practice. This may include the creation of a nursing form, nursing policy, educational plan, etc. Formal Powerpoint presentations will take place according to the instructions provided by the instructor.
The final paper includes:
An approved PICOTS/clinical question or thesis statement related to the identified opportunity for clinical practice improvement/change. The final EBP paper will include operational definitions of the PICOTS (population or problem, intervention, comparison, outcome, timing, and setting).
A scholarly discussion of the significance of the problem considers the human, societal, and financial impact of the problem as well as any legal, ethical, and safety or quality of care issues.
A brief critical appraisal of the body of evidence that has been deemed of adequate strength to include in the decision-making for a process change or recommendation.
A summary of the strength of evidence in table format is highly recommended.