What source can provide protocols that guide priority setting in nursing?

Evidence-based practice guidelines are designed to provide standardized protocols based on the best available research and clinical evidence. These guidelines are systematically developed statements that assist in making decisions about health care for specific clinical circumstances. They help nurses prioritize interventions by outlining the most effective practices to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

Using evidence-based practice guidelines ensures that priority setting in nursing is not based on subjective opinions but rather on scientific research and proven methodologies. This leads to greater consistency in care and enhances patient safety and quality of care. In contrast, personal experiences, older textbooks, and informal discussions may not provide the most accurate or updated information needed for effective priority setting, as they may lack the rigor and validity found in current evidence-based guidelines.