Evaluation Methods for Evidence-Based Practice Quality Improvement, Program Evaluation, and Policy Analysis Initiatives

BACKGROUND: The Mountain Model is an umbrella framework that can be used to guide evidence-based practice quality improvement (EBPQI), program evaluation (EBPPE), and policy analysis (EBPPA) initiatives. While steps of the Mountain Model for each type of initiative are similar, they diverge at the fifth step (methods) wherein clinicians and students must choose an appropriate framework and corresponding evaluation method that differs from research evaluation methods. PURPOSE: The purpose of this article is to describe appropriate evaluation methods for EBPQI, EBPPE, and EBPPA initiatives. APPROACH: For EBPQI initiatives, graphical displays (eg, run charts, statistical process control charts) should be used to evaluate data over time. For EBPPE and EBPPA initiatives, data are often descriptively summarized and described. Examples of evaluation methods for each type are provided. CONCLUSIONS: This article provides practical guidance for clinicians and students completing EBPQI, EBPPE, or EBPPA initiatives and how to appropriately evaluate data.