The Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) Framework: Utility for Implementation Science and Nursing Research

The Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) Framework: Utility for Implementation Science and Nursing Research

Abstract

Implementation science has great utility for implementing effective clinical and public health interventions in health and healthcare settings globally. There are over 100 implementation science theories, models, and frameworks with different specifications and utilities. The Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) framework is one of the most widely used and most flexible frameworks for the implementation of evidence-based interventions. The EPIS framework has been utilized across the United States, Europe, sub-Saharan Africa, Mexico, Australia and other countries. The EPIS framework is particularly useful in nursing research because it considers the complex health systems, health organizations, and community environments in which nurses work. EPIS also helps researchers and implementers to consider the important determinants and mechanisms to target with well-specified implementation strategies. This paper provides an overview of EPIS including its phases and domains that can help explain and guide implementation processes and outcomes. We provide examples of how EPIS can be applied to policy-focused implementation, team-based implementation, and for issues of power and equity in implementation research. Resources for learning about EPIS and tools for using EPIS in nursing research are also described.

Abstract

Implementation science has great utility for implementing effective clinical and public health interventions in health and healthcare settings globally. There are over 100 implementation science theories, models, and frameworks with different specifications and utilities. The Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) framework is one of the most widely used and most flexible frameworks for the implementation of evidence-based interventions. The EPIS framework has been utilized across the United States, Europe, sub-Saharan Africa, Mexico, Australia and other countries. The EPIS framework is particularly useful in nursing research because it considers the complex health systems, health organizations, and community environments in which nurses work. EPIS also helps researchers and implementers to consider the important determinants and mechanisms to target with well-specified implementation strategies. This paper provides an overview of EPIS including its phases and domains that can help explain and guide implementation processes and outcomes. We provide examples of how EPIS can be applied to policy-focused implementation, team-based implementation, and for issues of power and equity in implementation research. Resources for learning about EPIS and tools for using EPIS in nursing research are also described.