Empowering regional healthcare professionals for EBP

JBI recently conducted an interactive one-day workshop at Port Augusta Hospital, aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of rural healthcare professionals. The workshop, which saw enthusiastic participation, was organised to equip healthcare workers with evidence-based practices to address challenges in their day-to-day clinical endeavours.

Due to its critical role in healthcare delivery, the workshop conducted by JBI holds special relevance in enhancing the capabilities of healthcare professionals serving in this pivotal healthcare region, with representatives attending from Port Augusta, Whyalla, Roxby Downs, Hawker and others within the local health network.

The workshop, led by JBI staff including Alexa McArthur, Senior Research Fellow, and colleagues Bronwyn Overall and Vincent Pearson, aimed to equip Enrolled Nurses, Registered Nurses, Midwives, Nursing and Midwife unit managers, and directors with practical strategies to integrate research evidence into their daily practice. Attendees of the workshop were engaged and enthusiastic, showing a strong interest in improving their approach to evidence-based healthcare delivery.

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Two distinct workshops were conducted during the event. Workshop 1 focused on navigating the complexities of healthcare workplace culture and leadership. Attendees gained insights into evaluating and understanding the nuances of their work environment, with the aim of unlocking the potential for positive change. Workshop 2 delved into the realm of accessing and using high-quality evidence, providing participants with effective techniques to translate research findings into practical applications.

Feedback from the workshop attendees was overwhelmingly positive, underscoring the value and impact of the training provided by JBI. The participants found the workshops to be highly informative and relevant to their professional challenges. The success of this event highlights the importance of continuous education and training for healthcare professionals in regional and rural settings, ensuring the delivery of high-quality medical care to all sections of the population.

Port Augusta's pivotal role in the Flinders and Upper North Hospitals and Health Services, coupled with the success of the JBI-led workshop, showcases the potential for collaborative efforts between research institutions and healthcare facilities to strengthen the healthcare landscape in regional and rural areas. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, initiatives like these contribute significantly to bridging the gap between evidence-based research and its practical implementation, ultimately improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery as a whole.