Final answer:
The nurse manager is asking if the proposed change to a procedure is supported by empirical research and scientific data, which signifies an emphasis on evidence-based practices in healthcare.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the nurse manager asks if the suggested change to a procedure is evidence-based, they are inquiring whether research findings or other reliable evidence supports that the modification is appropriate and will lead to improved outcomes. This means that the suggested change should be rooted in scientific data that has been gathered through empirical research and has been published in scholarly journals, rather than being based on anecdotal experiences, common practices in other facilities, or the consensus among staff members. The use of evidence-based practices in healthcare aims to ensure that patient care is grounded in the most current and valid scientific evidence available, thus optimizing care quality and patient safety.