Speaker
Description
Background:
Sustained implementation of evidence-based practice (EBP) requires intentional strategies to build leadership and knowledge translation capacity among emerging healthcare professionals. Undergraduate nursing education represents a critical opportunity to develop early Best Practice Guideline (BPG) champions who can support the integration of evidence into practice. Structured peer-to-peer models may strengthen leadership development and long-term engagement with EBP within academic settings.
Aim:
The aim of this presentation is to describe an initiative to develop and support undergraduate nursing students as BPG Champions. A structured peer-to-peer capacity-building model provided this opportunity. It was designed to enhance leadership development, strengthen knowledge translation skills, and promote sustained engagement with EBP.
Implementation Approach:
At Nipissing University, undergraduate nursing students lead the BPSO Student-Led Peer-to-Peer Program through shared leadership and co-design. With faculty mentorship and structured coaching, student champions deliver interactive educational sessions that use case-based learning, peer discussion, and clinical application of RNAO Best Practice Guidelines. The program ensures sustainability by mentoring new student leaders, supporting progressive role development across cohorts, and recognizing achievements through the institutional Record of Student Development. Knowledge uptake is measured through student reflection and gap analysis.
Outcomes:
The initiative strengthened students’ engagement with evidence-based practice and enhanced leadership capacity within the BScN program. Participants reported increased confidence in discussing and applying RNAO Best Practice Guidelines in academic and clinical settings. Sustainability was supported through progressive leadership development and recognition through the institutional Record of Student Development. Program reach expanded through student-led educational initiatives, conference presentations, and the establishment of the Nursing Best Practice Student Network to foster ongoing engagement with evidence-based practice.
Lessons Learned & Implications for Practice:
A structured peer-to-peer model, supported by mentorship, coaching, and recognition, can develop undergraduate nursing students into emerging EBP champions. This transferable approach supports sustainable capacity-building and leadership development across academic nursing programs.
Author(s) Credentials and Title
BScN Students: Gurkirat Singh, Amanda Guedez, Tashi Aathytsang, and Hilda Konadu
Faculty: Dr. Kathryn Ewers, Dr. Louela Manankil-Rankin, and Dr. Aimable Nkurunziza (Nipissing University, School of Nursing).
What RNAO BPG or tool/toolkit is your abstract related to?
Implementation of Best Practice Guidelines; Champion Network approach; Gap Analysis and Capacity-Building strategies.
| Organization Name | Nipissing University |
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