Clinical Guidelines and Care Protocols

This logical and comprehensive book begins by placing clinical guidelines within the context of the broader movement towards evidence-based practice. It explores the concept of evidence, and defines clinical guidelines and care protocols which are then examined in the clinical situation. Importance is placed on the relationship between clinical guidelines and care protocols with the exercise of individual autonomy and expertise, and with individualised care and patient involvement and choice. The influence of cost on decision-making is reviewed, as is political aspects. The implementation of guidelines and protocols and the barriers to implementation are discussed with suggestions for the future.

With research integrated throughout, this very timely book meets the need for nurses to analyse and create new protocols.