The annual All Employee Survey (AES) highlighted the potential benefits of evidence-based mentors in our organization. It specifically identified areas for improvement, including nurse engagement, relationships with leadership, and work environments. Our overarching goal was to bolster our EBP proficiency through mentorship and a culture of shared governance, which will significantly enhance our nursing staff's work experience and engagement. 

Recognizing the crucial role of our frontline staff in implementing EBP, we have taken a significant step forward. We have demonstrated our commitment to their professional development by sending eight members to the FULD immersion class. This intensive program, a testament to our dedication, focused on problem-solving methodologies that align with our organization's mission and goals, underscoring our commitment to enhancing their EBP proficiency and valuing their contribution to our organization.

The improvement project was initiated with the PICO question, 'Does the implementation of an evidence-based practice council using a shared decision-making model improve staff engagement, empowerment, leadership relationships, and work environment?' This question, crucial to our research process, was formulated and guided by the EBP council in a series of collaborative meetings, highlighting the importance of shared decision-making in our organization. CINHAL, PubMed, Cochrane, and Joanna Briggs were used to search for scientific studies, with key terms including participation, engagement, acceptance, and compliance.

A significant milestone in our journey was the design and implementation of a clinical inquiry tool. This tool serves as a direct line for staff to engage EBP mentors in clinical questions, using a systematic process for EBP research. The tool is conveniently located on the hospital intranet site. When a frontline nurse has a clinical question, they enter the information on the form, which is then forwarded to EBP council members. During the EBP council meeting, members evaluate and rate the evidence and send the results back to the unit council/nurse who inquired. Mentors work with staff to develop a PICO question and define the steps for research implementation. The tool's design has been effective, with 10 inquiries using the current intranet process. Dissemination of the use of EBP mentors through quarterly newsletter publication highlighting the changes will help increase awareness and usage of the EBP access point, paving the way for more evidence-based practice in our organization.

The AES survey called for improvement in nurse engagement in EBP.  The establishment of the EBP council and mentors and an internet access point for clinical inquiry has already started to support nursing staff. The EBP council has provided a platform for staff to voice their concerns and suggestions, fostering a culture of shared governance. Through this platform, the frontline staff recognizes that changes in nursing practice can be realized by utilizing EBP mentors guiding this process, focused on clinical expertise, scientific research, and patient preferences and values. The internet access point has allowed staff to seek guidance from mentors on clinical questions, enhancing their EBP proficiency. These initiatives continue to build sustainable practices and develop lifelong relationships with mentors and staff.