Evidence-based practice (EBP) is about using the best research, clinical skills, and patient input to improve care. For nursing students or professionals—whether you’re working on a BSN, MSN, DNP, or just staying updated—choosing the right EBP project can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to! This list of 128 EBP nursing ideas, EBP project ideas, EBP nursing research topics, and general evidence-based practice examples helps you choose the right EBP project topic.
You’ll find practical evidence-based research topics across every specialty: pediatric nursing, mental health, geriatrics, nursing education, informatics, and more. Want to explore how to reduce hospital infections? Or improve pain management for cancer patients? Maybe you’re interested in using apps to teach new nurses? These ideas are grounded in real-world problems and designed to sharpen your research skills while improving nursing care.
Evidence-based practice project examples
Here’s a comprehensive list of 30 evidence-based practice project examples across various nursing specialties:
- Implementation of chlorhexidine bathing protocols to reduce central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) in ICU patients
- Structured hourly rounding to reduce fall rates in geriatric inpatient units
- Bedside shift report implementation to improve patient satisfaction and safety outcomes
- Use of aromatherapy for post-operative nausea and vomiting reduction
- Implementation of early mobility protocols for ventilated patients to reduce ICU length of stay
- Standardized handoff communication tools (SBAR) to reduce medical errors during patient transfers
- Music therapy interventions to reduce anxiety in pediatric pre-operative patients
- Nurse-led education program on inhaler technique to reduce COPD exacerbations
- Implementation of pressure injury prevention bundles in long-term care facilities
- Telehealth follow-up program to reduce hospital readmissions for heart failure patients
- Nurse-led diabetic foot screening program in primary care settings
- Implementation of pain assessment tools specifically designed for non-verbal patients
- Family presence during resuscitation: developing evidence-based protocols
- Targeted interventions to reduce catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI)
- Implementing shared decision-making models for oncology treatment planning
- Nurse-led smoking cessation programs in community health settings
- Sleep hygiene protocols to improve sleep quality in hospitalized patients
- Implementation of screening tools for postpartum depression in obstetric settings
- Nutritional screening and intervention protocols for elderly patients
- Mindfulness-based stress reduction programs for nurses to reduce burnout
- Implementation of early warning scoring systems to identify deteriorating patients
- Palliative care integration into standard care for patients with chronic illnesses
- Nurse-led antibiotic stewardship initiatives in long-term care facilities
- Implementation of virtual reality for pain management in pediatric burn patients
- Standardized protocols for rapid identification and treatment of sepsis
- Structured debriefing after critical incidents to improve team performance
- Implementation of skin-to-skin contact protocols for newborns and mothers
- Nurse-led asthma education program using teach-back method to improve medication adherence
- Standardized protocols for managing behavioral symptoms in dementia patients without pharmacological restraints
- Implementation of trauma-informed care approach in mental health settings
Examples of evidence-based practice nursing topics – EBP project ideas
Here are 20 detailed EBP nursing research topics addressing real-world healthcare challenges:
- Effectiveness of nurse-led transitional care models in reducing 30-day readmissions for patients with chronic heart failure
- Explores how structured nurse interventions during the transition from hospital to home can improve outcomes
- Impact of mandatory nurse-patient ratios on patient safety outcomes and nurse satisfaction
- Investigate the relationship between staffing levels and measurable quality improvement indicators
- Comparison of various pain assessment tools for accuracy in pediatric populations with developmental disabilities
- Evaluates which instruments provide the most reliable pain measurements in challenging assessment situations
- Evidence-based interventions to reduce workplace violence against emergency department nurses
- Examines effectiveness of safety protocols, environmental modifications, and training programs
- Effectiveness of simulation-based education versus traditional clinical teaching methods for new graduate nurses
- Measures competency development and confidence between different educational approaches
- Implementation science approach to improving compliance with sepsis bundles in emergency departments
- Investigate barriers and facilitators to adherence with evidence-based sepsis protocols
- Nurse-led protocols for early mobilization of post-surgical patients: impact on recovery timelines and complications
- Examines how structured mobility interventions affect key recovery metrics
- Effectiveness of various delirium prevention strategies in hospitalized elderly patients
- Compares multicomponent interventions for reducing delirium incidence and severity
- Cultural adaptation of diabetes self-management education for specific ethnic populations
- Explores how culturally tailored approaches improve adherence and outcomes
- Impact of dedicated education units on nursing student clinical competency development
- Evaluates partnership models between academic and healthcare institutions
- Evidence-based approaches to reducing maternal mortality in rural healthcare settings
- Examines interventions that can be implemented in resource-limited environments
- Effectiveness of telehealth monitoring for patients with multiple chronic conditions: nursing implications
- Investigate remote care models and the nursing role in virtual health management
- Nurse-led motivational interviewing techniques for improving medication adherence in psychiatric patients
- Examines communication approaches that enhance treatment compliance
- Comparison of wound care protocols for pressure injury prevention in high-risk populations
- Evaluates the effectiveness of different evidence-based prevention bundles
- Implementation of trauma-informed care principles in emergency nursing practice
- Explores how this approach affects patient experience and outcomes
- Effectiveness of various hand hygiene promotion strategies on healthcare worker compliance
- Compares interventions for sustaining hand hygiene behavior change
- Nurse navigator programs for improving cancer patient outcomes and experience
- Examines the impact of dedicated nurse coordination on the cancer care journey
- Evidence-based interventions for addressing compassion fatigue and moral distress in critical care nurses
- Evaluates programs designed to support nurse wellbeing and retention
- Impact of standardized communication tools on reducing medication errors during transitions of care
- Explores how structured information exchange affects medication safety
- Cost-effectiveness analysis of nurse-led chronic disease management programs in primary care settings
- Examines the economic and clinical value of expanding nursing roles in disease management
EBP Quality improvement Ideas on Acute Care/Critical Care
- Implementation of evidence-based delirium prevention bundles to reduce ICU delirium incidence and duration
- Nurse-driven protocols for ventilator liberation to reduce mechanical ventilation days
- Standardized fluid resuscitation guidelines based on latest evidence for septic shock patients
- Implementation of evidence-based feeding protocols to improve nutritional outcomes in critically ill patients
- Nurse-led early warning scoring systems to identify clinical deterioration before adverse events
- Development of evidence-based family presence protocols during invasive procedures and resuscitation
- Implementation of up-to-date bundle approaches to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia
Evidence based practice topics in Pediatric Nursing
- Evidence-based pain assessment and management protocols for children with developmental disabilities
- Implementation of distraction techniques based on research findings to reduce procedural anxiety in children
- Development of evidence-based protocols for managing pediatric asthma exacerbations in school settings
- Nurse-driven programs for evidence-based screening of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)
- Implementation of research-supported strategies to improve medication adherence in adolescents with chronic conditions
- Evidence-based interventions to reduce needle phobia in children and adolescents
- Development of standardized discharge education protocols for pediatric post-surgical patients based on current research
Nursing Capstone Research Questions and Topics on Mental Health Nursing
- Implementation of evidence-based crisis de-escalation techniques to reduce restraint use
- Nurse-led screening protocols for suicide risk using validated assessment tools
- Evidence-based interventions to address medication non-adherence in patients with serious mental illness
- Implementation of trauma-informed care principles based on current research in acute psychiatric settings
- Development of evidence-based therapeutic communication guidelines for patients experiencing psychosis
- Integration of evidence-based physical activity interventions to manage depression symptoms
- Implementation of research-supported sleep hygiene protocols for inpatient psychiatric units
Ideas for EBP Nursing Projects in Geriatric Nursing
- Evidence-based multicomponent interventions to prevent falls in community-dwelling older adults
- Implementation of validated screening tools to identify elder abuse in primary care settings
- Development of evidence-based protocols for managing behavioral symptoms of dementia without pharmacological restraints
- Nurse-led medication reconciliation processes to reduce polypharmacy in elderly patients
- Implementation of evidence-based exercise programs to improve mobility in long-term care residents
- Development of standardized protocols for assessing and addressing frailty based on the latest research
- Implementation of evidence-based reminiscence therapy for improving quality of life in dementia care
Latest evidence-based practice in Women’s Health/Obstetric Nursing
- Implementation of evidence-based delayed cord clamping protocols to improve neonatal outcomes
- Development of nurse-driven postpartum hemorrhage prevention bundles based on current guidelines
- Evidence-based interventions to reduce cesarean section rates in low-risk pregnancies
- Implementation of research-supported breastfeeding promotion strategies to improve initiation and duration rates
- Nurse-led evidence-based screening protocols for postpartum depression and anxiety
- Development of standardized evidence-based preconception counseling programs in primary care
- Implementation of up-to-date protocols for managing hyperemesis gravidarum based on latest research
Topics for Nursing Education and Professional Development EBP projects
- Evidence-based simulation strategies to develop clinical judgment in nursing students
- Implementation of validated debriefing methodologies to maximize learning in simulation experiences
- Development of evidence-based preceptor training programs to improve new graduate nurse transition
- Implementation of research-supported strategies to address moral distress among nurses
- Evidence-based approaches to cultivate resilience and prevent burnout in nursing staff
- Development of standardized competency assessment tools based on current best practices
- Implementation of evidence-based mentorship programs to improve nurse retention
EBP in Nursing Projects on Community/Public Health Nursing
- Evidence-based community interventions to increase childhood vaccination rates
- Implementation of research-supported home visiting programs for at-risk postpartum families
- Development of evidence-based screening protocols for social determinants of health in primary care
- Nurse-led interventions based on current research to reduce opioid overdose deaths in high-risk communities
- Implementation of evidence-based diabetes prevention programs in underserved populations
- Development of standardized protocols for community-based hypertension management based on latest guidelines
- Implementation of research-supported telehealth interventions to improve rural healthcare access
- Evidence-based health literacy assessment and intervention strategies for vulnerable populationsToggle
Evidence-Based Practice Nursing Research Topics
- Implementing a standardized handoff protocol using the I-PASS method to reduce communication-related medical errors
- Evaluating the effectiveness of hourly rounding in reducing patient falls in medical-surgical units
- Developing a nurse-led protocol for early identification and management of sepsis
- Implementing a comprehensive pressure ulcer prevention program using AI-assisted risk assessment
- Evaluating the impact of nurse-led medication reconciliation on reducing medication errors
- Implementing virtual reality training for new nurse orientation and skills assessment
- Evaluating the effectiveness of wearable technology in early detection of patient deterioration
- Developing a mobile app-based patient education program for chronic disease management
- Implementing AI-powered predictive analytics for patient risk assessment
- Evaluating the impact of telehealth nursing interventions on rural patient outcomes
- Implementing trauma-informed care practices in emergency departments
- Developing a nurse-led program for identifying and managing postpartum depression
- Evaluating the effectiveness of mindfulness interventions for patients with anxiety disorders
- Implementing a comprehensive suicide risk assessment and prevention protocol
- Developing strategies for managing workplace violence in healthcare settings
- Evaluating the efficacy of UV-C light disinfection in reducing healthcare-associated infections
- Implementing automated hand hygiene monitoring systems
- Developing protocols for managing multi-drug resistant organisms (MDRO) outbreaks
- Evaluating the impact of probiotic therapy on C. difficile infection rates
- Implementing evidence-based central line infection prevention bundles
- Developing culturally competent care protocols for diverse patient populations
- Implementing bedside shift reporting to improve patient engagement
- Evaluating the impact of noise reduction protocols on patient satisfaction and recovery
- Developing patient-centered discharge planning processes
- Implementing shared decision-making tools in chronic disease management
- Developing nurse-led protocols for managing diabetic ketoacidosis
- Implementing remote monitoring programs for heart failure patients
- Evaluating the effectiveness of lifestyle modification programs in hypertension management
- Developing comprehensive care protocols for patients with multiple chronic conditions
- Implementing pharmacogenetic testing protocols for medication management
- Implementing rapid response team protocols based on early warning scores
- Developing nurse-led protocols for post-cardiac arrest care
- Evaluating the effectiveness of simulation training in emergency response
- Implementing standardized protocols for mechanical ventilation weaning
- Developing evidence-based protocols for managing acute stroke patients
- Implementing family-centered care protocols in pediatric units
- Developing pain assessment and management protocols for non-verbal children
- Evaluating the effectiveness of play therapy in reducing pediatric anxiety
- Implementing evidence-based protocols for managing pediatric asthma
- Developing nurse-led childhood obesity prevention programs
- Implementing comprehensive fall prevention programs in long-term care facilities
- Developing protocols for managing behavioral symptoms in dementia patients
- Evaluating the effectiveness of music therapy in reducing agitation
- Implementing evidence-based protocols for preventing functional decline
- Developing nurse-led programs for medication management in elderly patients
- Implementing mentorship programs for new graduate nurses
- Developing evidence-based protocols for nurse retention and job satisfaction
- Evaluating the effectiveness of simulation-based competency assessment
- Implementing peer-review programs for nursing practice improvement
- Developing protocols for measuring and improving nurse resilience
Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing Project Ideas on Nursing Informatics
- Implementing electronic health records (EHR) in small clinics
- Evaluating the effectiveness of clinical decision support systems
- Developing a mobile app for patient medication adherence
- Assessing the impact of telenursing on rural healthcare access
- Implementing barcode medication administration systems
- Evaluating the use of wearable devices for patient monitoring
- Developing a nursing-specific data analytics dashboard
- Implementing virtual reality for nursing education
- Assessing the impact of AI-assisted triage systems in emergency departments
- Evaluating cybersecurity measures in nursing practice
EBP Topics in Nursing Child Health
- Implementing evidence-based strategies to reduce childhood obesity
- Evaluating the effectiveness of school-based asthma management programs
- Developing a pediatric pain assessment tool for non-verbal children
- Implementing family-centered care in pediatric oncology units
- Assessing the impact of play therapy on hospitalized children’s anxiety
- Evaluating nutrition education programs for parents of picky eaters
- Implementing skin-to-skin contact protocols in NICUs
- Assessing the effectiveness of video game-based exercises for children with cerebral palsy
- Evaluating strategies to improve vaccination rates in underserved communities
- Implementing evidence-based interventions for pediatric sleep disorders
EBP Nursing Project Ideas on Elderly Care
- Implementing fall prevention programs in long-term care facilities
- Evaluating the effectiveness of reminiscence therapy for dementia patients
- Developing a comprehensive geriatric assessment tool
- Implementing music therapy for pain management in elderly patients
- Assessing the impact of exercise programs on cognitive function in older adults
- Evaluating strategies to reduce polypharmacy in elderly patients
- Implementing telehealth monitoring for elderly patients with chronic conditions
- Assessing the effectiveness of intergenerational programs in nursing homes
- Evaluating nutritional interventions to prevent sarcopenia in older adults
- Implementing evidence-based protocols for preventing pressure ulcers
EBP Nursing Project Ideas on Mental Health
- Implementing trauma-informed care practices in psychiatric units
- Evaluating the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for anxiety disorders
- Developing a suicide risk assessment tool for primary care settings
- Implementing cognitive behavioral therapy protocols for depression in outpatient clinics
- Assessing the impact of peer support programs for individuals with severe mental illness
- Evaluating the effectiveness of art therapy in treating PTSD
- Implementing strategies to reduce the use of physical restraints in psychiatric facilities
- Assessing the impact of exercise programs on mood disorders
EBP Nursing Project Ideas on ICU and Critical Care Nursing
- Implementing early mobilization protocols in ICU patients
- Evaluating the effectiveness of nurse-led weaning protocols for mechanical ventilation
- Developing a delirium prevention program for ICU patients
- Implementing evidence-based central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) prevention bundles
- Assessing the impact of family presence during resuscitation
- Evaluating the effectiveness of prone positioning in ARDS patients
- Implementing noise reduction strategies in ICU environments
- Assessing the impact of standardized handoff protocols on patient safety in ICUs
EBP Nursing Project Ideas on Maternal and Newborn Health
- Implementing skin-to-skin contact protocols immediately after cesarean births
- Evaluating the effectiveness of centering pregnancy programs on maternal outcomes
- Developing a postpartum depression screening and intervention program
- Implementing evidence-based strategies to reduce cesarean section rates
- Assessing the impact of prenatal yoga on maternal stress and birth outcomes
- Evaluating the effectiveness of breastfeeding support interventions
- Implementing delayed cord clamping protocols
- Assessing the impact of culturally tailored prenatal education programs
EBP Nursing Project Ideas on Public Health Nursing
- Implementing a community-based diabetes prevention program
- Evaluating the effectiveness of school-based mental health screening programs
- Developing a home visitation program for high-risk postpartum mothers
- Implementing evidence-based smoking cessation interventions in community settings
- Assessing the impact of nurse-led health education programs on health literacy
- Evaluating the effectiveness of community health worker programs in underserved areas
- Implementing strategies to increase colorectal cancer screening rates
- Assessing the impact of workplace wellness programs on employee health outcomes
EBP Nursing Project Ideas on Oncology Nursing
- Implementing evidence-based interventions for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
- Evaluating the effectiveness of exercise programs on quality of life in cancer survivors
- Developing a comprehensive sexual health assessment tool for cancer patients
- Implementing strategies to improve oral mucositis management in oncology patients
- Assessing the impact of nurse navigation programs on patient outcomes
- Evaluating the effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction for cancer-related fatigue
- Implementing evidence-based protocols for managing immunotherapy side effects
- Assessing the impact of palliative care integration in oncology settings
EBP Nursing Project Ideas on Nursing Education and Professional Development
- Implementing simulation-based training for new graduate nurses
- Evaluating the effectiveness of interprofessional education programs
- Developing a mentorship program for novice nurse researchers
- Implementing evidence-based strategies to reduce nursing student attrition
- Assessing the impact of reflective practice on critical thinking skills in nursing students
- Evaluating the effectiveness of online continuing education programs for nurses
- Implementing strategies to improve NCLEX pass rates
- Assessing the impact of leadership development programs on nurse retention and job satisfaction
This comprehensive list of EBP nursing project ideas spans various themes and specialties within nursing. When selecting a project, consider your academic level, interests, and the potential impact on patient care and nursing practice. Remember that the best projects not only fulfill academic requirements but also contribute meaningfully to advancing nursing knowledge and improving healthcare delivery.
Whether you’re a BSc student looking to implement a fall prevention program or a DNP candidate aiming to develop a comprehensive community health intervention, this list offers options to suit your academic needs and professional aspirations. As you embark on your EBP journey, keep in mind that your work has the potential to make a real difference in patient outcomes and nursing practice.
Anatomy of a Good Evidence-Based Practice EBP Project Topic
A well-constructed EBP project topic has several key components that make it practical, impactful, and feasible to implement. Here’s a breakdown of what makes an effective EBP project topic:
1. Clinical Problem Focus
- Clearly defined problem: Identifies a specific clinical issue that needs improvement
- Population-specific: Targets a particular patient population or healthcare setting
- Measurable concern: Addresses an issue that can be quantified through metrics
2. Intervention Clarity
- Specific intervention: Clearly states what practice change is being proposed
- Evidence-based foundation: Built on existing research and best practices
- Implementation-ready: Describes an actionable approach, not just a concept
3. Comparison Element
- Current practice reference: Establishes what is being done now as a baseline
- Alternative approaches: May compare multiple evidence-based options
- Benchmark consideration: References standards of care or institutional goals
4. Outcome Focus
- Clear desired results: Specifies what improvement is expected
- Patient-centered: Emphasizes benefits to patient care or experience
- System impact: May include organizational benefits like cost reduction
5. Feasibility Factors
- Resource consideration: Realistic about required staff, time, and materials
- Implementation scope: Appropriate for the setting and available resources
- Sustainability potential: Can be maintained beyond the initial project period
Format Structure
A well-structured EBP topic often follows the PICOT format:
- P = Population/Problem
- I = Intervention
- C = Comparison
- O = Outcome
- T = Time frame
For example: “In adult ICU patients (P), does the implementation of a nurse-led daily chlorhexidine bathing protocol (I) compared to standard bathing procedures (C) reduce the rate of central line-associated bloodstream infections (O) over 6 months (T)?”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About EBP Nursing Projects
What is an example of an evidence-based practice (EBP) project?
An example of an EBP project is “Implementing a Nurse-Led Protocol to Reduce Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTIs).” This project would involve:
- Reviewing current literature on CAUTI prevention
- Developing a protocol based on the best available evidence
- Implementing the protocol in a clinical setting
- Measuring outcomes (e.g., CAUTI rates) before and after implementation
- Analyzing results and making recommendations for practice
What is the evidence-based project for nursing?
An evidence-based project in nursing is a systematic approach to improving patient care by integrating the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient preferences. It typically involves:
- Identifying a clinical problem or question
- Searching for and critically appraising relevant research
- Implementing evidence-based interventions
- Evaluating outcomes
- Disseminating findings to improve nursing practice
What is an example of an EBP question in nursing?
An example of an EBP question in nursing, formatted using the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) framework, could be:
“In adult patients with type 2 diabetes (P), how does a nurse-led diabetes self-management education program (I) compared to standard care (C) affect HbA1c levels and quality of life (O) over a 6-month period?”
How to choose an EBP topic?
To choose an EBP topic:
- Identify issues in your clinical practice or area of interest
- Consider the significance of the problem and its impact on patient outcomes
- Assess the feasibility of addressing the issue within your timeframe and resources
- Ensure there’s sufficient literature available on the topic
- Consider your passion for the subject – choose something you’re genuinely interested in
- Align the topic with your academic level and program requirements
- Consult with your faculty advisor or clinical mentor for guidance
Which is the best example of evidence-based nursing practice?
A strong example of evidence-based nursing practice is the implementation of early mobilization protocols for ICU patients. This practice:
- Is based on robust research showing improved outcomes
- Integrates clinical expertise in assessing patient readiness for mobilization
- Considers patient preferences and tolerances
- Involves interdisciplinary collaboration
- Has measurable outcomes (e.g., reduced length of stay, improved functional status)
- Can be standardized yet tailored to individual patient needs
What is an evidence-based practice topic?
An evidence-based practice topic in nursing is a specific area of clinical practice that can be improved through the application of current best evidence. It should:
- Address a relevant clinical problem or question
- Have a body of research literature available for review
- Be specific enough to be manageable within a project timeframe
- Have the potential to improve patient outcomes or nursing practice
- Be measurable in terms of outcomes or impact
Examples include:
- Strategies to reduce patient falls in acute care settings
- Interventions to improve medication adherence in elderly patients
- Non-pharmacological pain management techniques in pediatric patients
- Effectiveness of nurse-led smoking cessation programs
Remember, the best EBP topic for you will depend on your clinical setting, interests, and the specific requirements of your academic program. Always consult with your faculty advisor or clinical mentor when selecting and refining your EBP project topic.