Nursing practice at Lourdes is based on the art and science of nursing, theory and research. Professional nurses are independent. Our model of nursing care is relationship-based. This model includes leadership, teamwork, professional practice, patient care, appropriate use of resources, and evaluation of outcomes. Relationship-based care incorporates collaboration among all members of the health care team, effective communication, and shared leadership.

Nursing practice also includes participation in quality improvement activities to promote outstanding patient care. Nursing care is based on the best evidence available, including evidence-based clinical practice guidelines and nursing research.
 
The integration of evidence-based practice and nursing research at Lourdes is grounded in critical thinking, consistent with the Stetler Model of Research Utilization.
Performance evaluation is based on Benner’s model, “Novice to Expert,” the American Nurses’ Association (ANA) “Scope and Standards for Nurse Administrators,”, and the ANA “Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice.”

All nurses are encouraged to obtain board certification in their practice area and approximately one-third already have achieved this recognition.