An Exemplar of the Use of NNN Language in Developing Evidence-Based Practice Guidelines

PURPOSE.  To explore the use of standardized language, NNN, in the development of evidence-based practice (EBP).

DATA SOURCES.  Published research and texts on family interventions, nursing diagnoses (NANDA-I), nursing interventions (NIC), and nursing outcomes (NOC).

DATA ANALYSIS.  Research literature was summarized and synthesized to determine levels of evidence for the NIC intervention Family Integrity Promotion.

CONCLUSIONS.  The authors advocate that a “standards of practice” category of levels of evidence be adopted for interventions not amenable to randomized controlled trials or for which a body of research has not been developed. Priorities for nursing family intervention research are identified.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE.  The use of NANDA-I nursing diagnoses, NIC interventions, and NOC outcomes (NNN language) as research frameworks will facilitate the development of EBP guidelines and the use of appropriate outcome measures.