Successful implementation of an evidence-based clinical practice guideline: acute dysuria/urgency in adult women.

This paper describes the development and successful implementation of an evidence-based clinical practice guideline dealing with uncomplicated urinary tract infection in adult women (acute dysuria guideline). This guideline was based on an evaluation and synthesis of the medical literature using the best available evidence. Following guideline implementation, clinical practice changes recommended by the guideline were observed, including a significant decrease in laboratory testing and clinic visits for acute dysuria. Successful implementation of this guideline is attributed to the use of an explicit, evidence-based guideline development process, a combination of implementation strategies including decision support for providers, and a change in the roles of registered nurses.