Evidence-Based Or Sacred Cow?
As a nurse, you may have been challenged by a sacred cow. If you are not familiar with the term, a sacred cow may go something like this:
“Well, I see what you are saying, but this is the way we do it around here…”
It is those things that make you, the nurse, say “HUH??”
I have run up against this during my nursing career. I am sure that many of us have!
Check out this video as I describe a sacred cow in nursing… And what to do about it:
Let’s hear from you! Have you ever experienced a sacred cow during your nursing career? What did you do when you heard the response “This is how we do it around here”? What can you share with our readers to help them practice evidence-based nursing in their careers?
About the Author: Keynote speaker and virtual conference host, Elizabeth Scala MSN/MBA, RN, partners with hospitals, nursing schools, and nurse associations to transform the field of nursing from the inside out. As the host of the Nurse’s Week program, The Art of Nursing, Elizabeth supports nursing organizations in celebrating and recognizing their staff in a meaningful way. Elizabeth received her dual master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University. She is also a certified coach and Reiki Master Teacher. Elizabeth lives in Maryland with her supportive husband and playful pit bull.
Hi Elizabeth,
I have also passed through the situations you mentioned, but I always followed my own principal and did what’s best for the patients and workplace. One of the Charge Nurse in the facility was also the guiding force in my early nursing school days who took me under her wing.
Wonderful to hear, Helena. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us. Glad you enjoyed the video!
Thank you! I am gathering information to host a “Put your Sacred Cow out to pasture” contest.