This article discusses how the Best Practice for Older People in Acute Care Settings (BPOP): Guidance for Nurses (2009) CD-ROM (Bridges et al 2009a) and accompanying essential guide (Bridges et al 2009b) can help to improve care. The authors explain how nurses can use the best practice statements on the CD-ROM and the essential guide to adapt their own practice and influence the practice of others for the benefit of patients and staff.