Evidence-based practice utilization and associated factors among nurses working in Amhara Region Referral Hospitals, Ethiopia

Uptake of evidence-based practice and its predictors among nurses in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: While evidence-based practice has demonstrated its capacity to enhance healthcare quality and bolster clinical outcomes, the translation of research into clinical practice encounters persistent challenges. In Ethiopia, there remains a dearth of comprehensive and nationally representative data concerning the extent of Evidence-based practice adoption among nurses. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis endeavors to assess the overall prevalence of Evidence-based practice implementation and delve into its determinants among Ethiopian nurses. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. In order to identify pertinent studies, a search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and EMBASE databases. A weighted inverse variance random-effects model was employed to estimate the pooled prevalence. Cochrane's Q-test and I2 statistics were calculated to assess heterogeneity among studies. Funnel plots and Egger's test were utilized to evaluate publication bias. Pooled implementation rates and meta-regression analysis were carried out using STATA 17. Results: Of the total 1,590 retrieved articles, twelve studies including 4,933 nurses were included in the final analysis. The pooled prevalence of Evidence-based practice uptake among nurses in Ethiopia is 53% (95% CI: 46%-60%). Having knowledge about Evidence-based practice (AOR = 2.29; 95% CI: 1.90, 2.69; I2 = 70.95%), holding a favorable attitude towards Evidence-based practice (AOR = 2.56; 95% CI: 1.63, 3.49; I2 = 88.39%), occupying a head nurse position (AOR = 3.15; 95% CI: 1.85, 4.46; I2 = 87.42%), possessing effective communication skills (AOR = 4.99; 95% CI: 1.47, 8.51; I2 = 99.86%), and having access to Evidence-based practice guidelines (AOR = 1.90; 95% CI: 1.55, 2.24; I2 = 57.24%) were identified as predictors of the uptake of Evidence-based practice. Conclusion: Only half of Ethiopia's nurses exhibit a strong embrace of Evidence-Based Practice within clinical settings, underscoring the urgent necessity for coordinated endeavors to cultivate this essential practice. Possessing knowledge, effective communication skills, access to updated guidelines, maintaining a positive attitude towards Evidence-Based Practice, and holding a position as head nurse emerged as predictors of successful implementation of Evidence-Based Practice. Hence, policymakers must prioritize capacity-building initiatives, disseminate the latest EBP guidelines widely, and strengthen mentorship roles for head nurses. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/#searchadvanced, identifier CRD42023488943.

Observation of non-recommended (harmful) intrapartum practices among obstetric care providers in public hospitals in southern Ethiopia, 2023

The majority of developing countries do not follow the WHO's emphasis on replacing harmful and ineffective traditional practices with evidence-based clinical treatment. In these countries, harmful or ineffective practices are routinely used as part of routine care during labor and delivery, while beneficial procedures are not used for the majority of laboring mothers. However, it is critical to use evidence-based practices while giving therapy since they improve care quality, save costs, increase patient and family happiness, and promote professional progress. To assess the magnitude of non-recommended (harmful) intrapartum practices among obstetric care providers in public hospitals in southern Ethiopia, 2023. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 30, 2023, to February 30, 2023, in public hospitals in the Gamo and Gofa zones. An observational checklist and a self-administered questionnaire were used to gather data. Using odds ratio of 95% C, bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was used to discover factors related with the outcome variable during data analysis using SPSS version 27. A P-value of less than 0.05 and I were regarded as statistically significant. The magnitude of harmful intrapartum practice was 60.6% (95% CI: 53.25-68.5). Lack of internet access (AOR = 10.1, 95% CI: 4.93-21.1), a few years of work experience (AOR = 6.21, 95% CI: 3.1-12.5), and not being trained on evidence-based intrapartum practices (AOR = 4.01, 95% CI: 1.94-7.95) were statistically significant with harmful intrapartum practices. Evidence-based practice can be improved by promptly providing obstetric care providers with ongoing training and standards for intrapartum care.

Knowledge, skills, attitudes, beliefs, and implementation of evidence-based practice among nurses in low- and middle-income countries: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Over the past three decades, research studies on nurses' engagement in evidence-based practice (EBP) have been widely reported, particularly in high-income countries, with studies from these countries dominating literature reviews. As low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) continue to join the EBP movement, primary research has emerged over the past decade about nurses' engagement with EBP.

AIMS

The aim of this scoping review was to identify the types and extent of published research regarding nurses' knowledge, skills, attitudes, beliefs, and implementation of EBP in LMICs.

METHODS

The JBI scoping review methodology was used. Eight databases were searched up to November 2023. The review included primary studies (quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods) that reported the knowledge, skills, attitudes, beliefs, or implementation of EBP among nurses in LMICs. Included studies focused on registered nurses in all healthcare settings within LMICs. Studies published in English were included with no limit on publication date. Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles of published studies. Data were analyzed quantitatively using frequencies and counts. Textual data from qualitative studies were analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

RESULTS

Fifty-three publications were included, involving 20 LMICs. Studies were published between 2007 and 2023, with over 60% published in the past 7 years. Studies that evaluated familiarity/awareness of EBP showed that in general, nurses had low familiarity with or awareness of EBP. Most studies (60%) described nurses' attitudes toward EBP as positive, favorable, or high, and 31% as moderate. However, over 60% of studies described nurses' EBP knowledge/skills as moderate, low, or insufficient. Approximately 84% of studies described EBP implementation in healthcare settings as moderate, low, poor, or suboptimal.

LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION

Studies on nursing EBP have been increasing in LMICs for the past two decades, with findings highlighting opportunities for advancing EBP in nursing within LMICs. Health systems and healthcare organization leaders in LMICs should equip nurses with EBP knowledge and skills while providing the needed resources and support to ensure consistent implementation of EBP to improve health outcomes.

Competency in evidence-based medicine and associated factors among medical radiology technologists in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

INTRODUCTION

Evidence-based medicine integrates clinical expertise, patient values and best research evidence in clinical decision-making. This study aimed to assess evidence-based medicine knowledge, attitudes, practices and associated factors among medical radiology technologists in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 392 medical radiology technologists from May to August 2022 using a self-administered questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression identified factors associated with evidence-based medicine practice.

RESULTS

Most medical radiology technologists (57.7%) had moderate evidence-based medicine knowledge and 94.9% had favourable attitudes. However, 64.8% demonstrated poor evidence-based medicine practice. Factors significantly associated with better evidence-based medicine practice were moderate knowledge (AOR 1.949, 95% CI 1.155-3.291), good statistical understanding (AOR 1.824, 95% CI 1.135-2.930), sufficient time for evidence-based medicine (AOR 1.892, 95% CI 1.140-3.141), institutional support (AOR 2.093, 95% CI 1.271-3.440) and evidence-based medicine resource access (AOR 1.653, 95% CI 1.028-2.656).

CONCLUSION

Despite moderate knowledge and positive attitudes towards evidence-based medicine, most medical radiology technologists had suboptimal utilisation. Strategies to improve knowledge, ensure dedicated time, provide institutional support and resources could enhance evidence-based radiology practice.

Individual and social system factors influencing evidence-based practices among nurses in general hospitals: A cross-sectional multi-institutional study

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To investigate evidence-based practices and examine the influence of individual and social system factors on evidence-based practices among nurses in general hospitals.

BACKGROUND

Evidence-based practice is essential for improving healthcare quality. However, a challenge for nursing worldwide is nurses' limited use of evidence-based practices. It is crucial to determine the individual and social system factors affecting nurses' use of evidence-based practices.

DESIGN

This study employs a multi-institutional cross-sectional design.

METHODS

With a multistage random sampling method, 336 registered nurses were recruited from 17 general hospitals in the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. Data were collected through a seven-part questionnaire, including the Evidence-Based Practice Implementation Scale and individual and social system factors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression.

RESULTS

Nurses in general hospitals perceived low levels of evidence-based practices. Individual factors, such as perceived barriers (p < .001), knowledge (p < .001) and attitudes (p = .001), were related to EBP as well as social system factors, including the work environment (p < .001) which influence nurses' practice, explaining 34% variance among nurses.

CONCLUSION

Nurses perceived the work environment as the most influencing factor related to evidence-based practices. Individual characteristics, including perceived knowledge, attitudes and barriers, were critical factors in performing evidence-based practices in Myanmar.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Nurse administrators and policymakers can develop strategies and interventions for improving knowledge, attitudes and work environment towards evidence-based practice. Minimizing the barriers to evidence-based practice will promote evidence-based practices in Myanmar general hospitals.

IMPACT

In addressing the individual and social system factors influencing the evidence-based practices of nurses, this study contributes to enhancing healthcare quality and outcomes.

REPORTING METHOD

This study adhered to the STROBE checklist.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

There was no patient or public contribution.

Understanding the association of mass media with the timing of antenatal care in Ethiopia: an impression from the 2016 Ethiopia demographic and health survey

INTRODUCTION

Although the timing of antenatal care has a high potential of reducing maternal and child health problems and can be improved through different mass media exposure, it has been overlooked and remained a major life-costing delinquent issue. Therefore, the aim of this study is to identify the relationship between mass media exposure and ANC for further insight.

METHODS

We used the 2016 Ethiopian Health and Demography (EDHS) data. EDHS is a community-based cross-sectional survey that applies a two-stage stratified cluster sampling and it is a country-representative. We included 4740 reproductive-age women with complete records in EDHS dataset in this study. We excluded records with missing data from the analysis. We used ordinal logistic regression followed by generalized ordinal logistic to examine mass media relationships with timely antenatal care (ANC). We presented data using numbers, mean, standard deviations, percent or proportions, coefficient of regression, and 95% confidence interval. All analyses were performed using STATA version 15.

RESULT

We examined the data of 4740 participants for the history of timely initiation of ANC and found 32.69% (95% CI = 31.34, 34.03) timely ANC. Factors such as watching television (TV) less than once a week [coef. = -0.72, CI: -1.04, -0.38], watching TV at least once a week [coef. = -0.60, CI: -0.84, -0.36], listening to radio [coef. = -0.38, CI: -0.84, -0.25], and use internet every day[coef. = -1.37, CI: -2.65, -0.09], are associated with the timely ANC.

CONCLUSION

Despite its association with improving the timing of ANC, our findings showed mothers need additional support on the use of the media and the timing of ANC. In addition to the mass media, other covariates such as educational status, family size, and husband's desire affected the timely ANC imitation. These need attention during implementation to avert the current. This is also an essential input for policy and decision-makers.

Determinants of evidence-based practice among health care professionals in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is the art of using up-to-date information for clinical decision-making. Healthcare professionals at all levels are expected to use the latest research evidence for quality care. In Ethiopia inclusive and nationally representative summarized evidence regarding the level of EBP among health professionals is scarce. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the pooled prevalence of EBP utilization and its determinants among Ethiopian health professionals.

METHOD

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using PRISMA guidelines. Comprehensive literature was searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, and African Online Journal databases. A weighted inverse variance random effect model was used to estimate pooled prevalence. Cochrane Q-test and I2 statistics were computed to assess heterogeneity among studies. Funnel plot and Eggers test were done to assess publication bias. Factors associated with EBP were identified using STATA v. 14.

RESULT

Overall, 846 articles were retrieved and finally 23 articles were included in this review. The pooled prevalence of good EBP among health professionals was 52.60% (95%CI; 48.15%-57.05%). Knowledge about EBP (AOR = 2.38, 95% CI: (2.08-2.72)), attitude (AOR = 2.09, 95% CI: (1.67-2.60)), educational status (AOR = 3.12, 95% CI: (2.18-4.47)), work experience (AOR = 2.59, 95% CI: (1.48-4.22)), EBP training (AOR = 2.26, 95% CI: (1.87-2.74)), presence of standard guideline (AOR = 1.94, 95% CI: (1.51-2.50)), internet access (AOR = 1.80, 95% CI: (1.47-2.20)), presence of enough time (AOR = 2.01, 95% CI: (1.56-2.60)) and marital status (AOR = 1.73, 95% CI: (1.32-2.28)) were determinants of EBP.

CONCLUSION

Around half of health professionals in Ethiopia have good EBP utilization which was low. Knowledge, attitude, educational status, work experience, EBP training, presence of standard guidelines, internet access, presence of enough time, and single marital status were positively associated with EBP. Therefore future interventions should focus on increasing their knowledge and changing their attitude through providing training and addressing organizational barriers like availing standard guidelines, accessing the internet, and minimizing professionals' workload that enables them to critically appraise and integrate the latest evidence for clinical decision-making to improve the quality of care.

Evidence-Based Practice Competency of Registered Nurses in the Greek National Health Service

Nurses' competency toward evidence-based practice (EBP) has been extensively investigated by several studies worldwide. However, factors affecting the competence of Greek nurses working in the NHS have not been fully investigated in terms of EBP. Thus, this study aimed to explore the impact of the individual qualifications of nurses on their competence toward EBP. Data from 473 registered nurses working in 10 hospitals in the Greek National Health Service (NHS) were collected between October and December 2020 using a convenience sampling method in a cross-section design. The Greek version of the 35-item (five-point Likert scale) Evidence-Based Practice Competency Questionnaire for Professional Registered Nurses (EBP-COQ Prof) was used to assess the competence level of nurses, focusing on attitudes, skills, and knowledge, as well as the utilization of EBP in clinical practice. One-way ANOVA and Pearson coefficient tests were applied to compare the possible differences among variables (two or more groups) as appropriate. A multi-factorial regression model was applied to explore participants' qualifications, including demographics (MSc degree, gender, English language knowledge, etc.) as independent variables, and to control for potential confounding effects toward EBP competency. The p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The mean age of the 473 participants (402 women and 71 men) was 44.7 ± 9.2 years old. The mean value of competence subscales was found as follows: attitudes 3.9 ± 0.6, knowledge 3.7 ± 0.6, skills 3.1 ± 0.8, and utilization 3.4 ± 0.7. A multivariate regression analysis revealed that associates of "Master's degree" (t = 3.039, p = 0.003), "Writing an academic article" (3.409, p = 0.001), "Working in a University clinic" (2.203, p = 0.028), and "Computer Skills" (2.404, p = 0.017) positively affected "Attitudes", "Knowledge", "Skills", and "Utilization", respectively. The research data suggest that nurses working in the Greek NHS were limited in competence regarding EBP in comparison with other European countries. Therefore, vocational, educational, and training programs tailored to EBP enhancement are crucially important. This study was not registered.

Needs and Attitudes Related to the Adoption of Evidence-Based Practices Among Latinx Mental Health Professionals

Empirically supported interventions are warranted to achieve desired clinical outcomes and improve service delivery. Thus, efforts to identify, adopt, and implement Evidence-Based Practices (EBPs) are underway across various Latinx communities, including Puerto Ricans, where there is a growing recognition and prevalence of mental health and substance use disorders. This study investigated the needs and attitudes toward EBPs among an interdisciplinary sample of mental health professionals in Puerto Rico. An anonymous survey was distributed to social workers, psychologists, and professional counselors (N = 237). Using structural equation modeling, four dimensions of attitudes towards EBPs (openness, divergence, appeal, and requirement) were regressed on various individual and organizational factors. Some socio-demographic characteristics, educational opportunities, and organizational factors significantly contributed to specific attitudes related to the adoption of EBPs. Female participants and those working in rural settings scored higher in the openness to innovation dimension. Greater organizational support and graduating from a private institution were associated with more divergence from research, while married individuals and those trained on EBPs scored lower on this dimension. The lack of exposure to EBPs in college and younger age predicted greater interest in the appeal of adopting an EBP intervention (i.e., would adopt an EBP if it made sense). No differences in attitudes toward EBPs were found by professional discipline or work setting (i.e., clinical, community, and schools). Recommendations to increase openness and interest in the appeal of EBPs among Spanish-speaking professional communities in Latin America are highlighted.

The effect of capacity building evidence-based medicine training on its implementation among healthcare professionals in Southwest Ethiopia: a controlled quasi-experimental outcome evaluation

BACKGROUND

Evidence-based medicine (EBM) bridges research and clinical practice to enhance medical knowledge and improve patient care. However, clinical decisions in many African countries don't base on the best available scientific evidence. Hence, this study aimed to determine the effect of training interventions on background knowledge and awareness of EBM sources, attitude, competence, and practice of EBM among healthcare professionals.

METHOD

We designed a controlled group quasi-experimental pre-post test study to evaluate the effect of capacity-building EBM training. A total of 192 healthcare professionals were recruited in the study (96 from the intervention and 96 from the control group). We used a difference-in-differences (DID) analysis to determine the effect of the training. Along the way, we used a fixed effect panel-data regression model to assess variables that could affect healthcare professionals' practice of EBM. The cut point to determine the significant effect of EBM training on healthcare professionals' background knowledge and awareness of EBM sources, attitude, and competence was at a P-value < 0.05.

RESULT

The DID estimator showed a significant net change of 8.0%, 17.1%, and 11.4% at P < 0.01 on attitude, competence, and practice of EBM, respectively, whereas no significant increment in the background knowledge and awareness of EBM sources. The fixed effect regression model showed that the attitude [OR = 2.288, 95% CI: (1.049, 4.989)], competence [OR = 4.174, 95% CI: 1.984, 8.780)], technical support [OR = 2.222, 95% CI: (1.043, 3.401)], and internet access [OR = 1.984, 95% CI: (1.073, 4.048)] were significantly affected EBM practice.

CONCLUSION

The capacity-building training improved attitude, competence, and EBM practice. Policymakers, government, and other concerned bodies recommended focusing on a well-designed training strategy to enhance the attitude, competence, and practice towards EBM among healthcare professionals. It was also recommended to enhance internet access and set mechanisms to provide technical support at health facilities.

Nurses' and midwives' participation and utilization of health-related research in Kenya: Implications for evidence-based practice

Objective

To assess the level of participation of nurses and midwives in health-related research, determine the status of utilization of research to inform nursing and midwifery practice in Kenya, and explore perspectives of nurses and midwives about strategies to empower nurses/midwives to engage in health research in Kenya.

Methods

Data were extracted from online survey responses of 156 nurse and midwife educators, practitioners, and managers/administrators. SPSS version 26 was used to analyze quantitative data; qualitative data were analyzed using Excel to organize data into categories.

Results

Over one-third of participants reported ever publishing research (37.2%, 58/156). Participants reported using knowledge gained in nursing school to guide practice most frequently (n = 148). Utilization of research findings to guide practice was reported by 80.3% (110/137) of participants. Strategies to enhance participation in the research included research training, research forums, policy reforms, and emphasis on research in curricula.

Conclusions

There is need to intensify and prioritize proposed strategies to empower nurses/midwives to engage in health research.

Evidence-based practice utilisation and its associated factors among nurses working at public hospitals in West Shoa zone, central Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the utilisation of evidence-based practice (EBP) and its associated factors among nurses working in public hospitals of West Shoa zone, Oromia, central Ethiopia, in 2021.

DESIGN

Institution-based cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Government hospitals including four primary hospitals, three general hospitals and a referral hospital. The study was conducted between 10 August and 30 August 2021.

PARTICIPANTS

418 randomly selected nurses working in public hospitals of West Shoa. Data were collected via a structured, self-administered questionnaire, entered into EpiData V.3.1 and exported to SPSS V.26 for analysis.

OUTCOME MEASURE

Utilisation of EBP (good/poor).

RESULTS

52.4% (95% CI 47.6% to 57.3%) of nurses had good EBP utilisation. Level of hospital (adjusted OR (AOR) 0.456 (95% CI 0.253 to 0.821)), administrative position (AOR 2.7 (1.09 to 6.69)), level of education (AOR 0.353 (0.181 to 0.686)), knowledge about EBP (AOR 1.785, (1.13 to 2.82)), availability of time (AOR 0.523 (0.28 to 0.96)), and cooperative and supportive colleagues (AOR 0.429 (0.235 to 0.783)) were associated with good utilisation of evidence-based nursing practice.

CONCLUSION

The utilisation of EBP among nurses is low. Level of education, knowledge about EBP, sufficient time at the workplace, and cooperative and supportive colleagues were among the factors associated with good EBP utilisation. The healthcare system in general, hospital management specifically, needs to design strategies to improve evidence-based nursing practice in the area.

Utilization of Evidence-Based Nursing Practice and Associated Factors Among Nurses Working in Saint Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Ethiopia

Introduction

Organizations still struggle with the best mechanisms to implement research into practice, and guideline developers need to continue to strive toward collaboration and avoidance of duplication.

Objective

To assess the utilization of evidence-based nursing practice and associated factors among nurses working in Saint Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 10 September 2022 to 25 November 2022. The total sample size was 418, and a simple random sampling technique was used to select nurses. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. Data were entered using EpiData version 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Multicollinearity was considered by using a variance inflation factor (VIF > 10). The goodness of fit test was done using the Hosmer-Lemeshow model. Binary logistic regression was done, and variables with a p-value of less than 0.25 in the bivariable analysis were taken into the multivariable analysis. Statistical significance was declared at a p-value of less than 0.05 with an adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval.

Result

The utilization of evidence-based nursing practice was 58.1% [95% CI: 52.23-63.24]. Male sex [AOR 4.65, 95%CI: 2.51-8.63], work experience of >5 years [AOR 6.83, 95%CI: 2.27-20.58], head nurse role in the hospital [AOR 1.72, 95%CI: 1.02-3.18], master's degree educational status [AOR 2.78, 95%CI: 1.89-8.61], and availability of EBNP guideline in the ward [AOR 1.24, 95%CI: 1.04-5.32] were significantly associated.

Conclusion

About six in 10 nurses utilize EBNP at Saint Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College. Sex, experience of >5 years, head nurse role in the hospital, master's degree educational status, and availability of EBNP guidelines in the ward were significantly associated with the utilization of EBNP. Therefore, recruiting experienced nurses, learning master`s degrees, and availing the EBNP guidelines in the ward might increase the utilization of EBNP.

Barriers to implementing evidence-based nursing practice from the hospitals' point of view in China: A regional cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

There is a widespread international agreement that healthcare should be based on high-quality evidence; however, bridging the gap from evidence to practice is still problematic. Although barriers to the implementation of evidence-based nursing practice have been identified, most studies have focused on clinical nurses' perceptions of the barriers to evidence-based nursing practice, with a lack of investigation into barriers from the hospitals' viewpoint.

OBJECTIVES

To identify existing barriers to implementing evidence-based nursing practice from the hospitals' viewpoint.

DESIGN

A descriptive study employing a regional cross-sectional survey.

SETTINGS AND PARTICIPANTS

A convenience sample of 91 hospitals in Guangdong Province, China.

METHODS

The survey used an online questionnaire containing basic hospital information and an open-ended question. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse basic hospital data. Responses to the open-ended question were analysed with thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The sample consisted of 89 valid responses to the open-ended question. Five themes were identified: (1) knowledge (70.8 %); (2) environmental context and resources (42.7 %); (3) social influences (7.9 %); (4) intentions (7.9 %); and (5) beliefs about capabilities (1.1 %).

CONCLUSION

Introduced early in 2001, China has embraced evidence-based nursing for more than 20 years. However, lack of knowledge is still the top barrier to implementing evidence-based nursing practice in hospitals in China. The findings indicate a need for more evidence-based nursing practice teaching strategies towards further enhancing clinical nurses' and nursing managers' evidence-based nursing practice beliefs, knowledge, and skills.

Sociodemographic and Work-Related Variables Affecting Knowledge of, Attitudes toward, and Skills in EBNP of Nurses According to an EBPPQ

(1) This study examines sociodemographic and work-related variables to determine their impact on the knowledge of, attitudes toward, and skills in Evidence-Based Nursing Practice (EBNP). (2) The study included 830 nurses from four voivodships in Poland, Dolnośląskie, Łódzkie, Podlaskie, and Zachodniopomorskie and was conducted by the diagnostic survey method, using the questionnaire technique. The following research tools were applied in the study: an Evidence-Based Practice Profile Questionnaire (EBPPQ) and a survey questionnaire developed by the authors, containing questions on sociodemographic data and work-related variables. (3) Sociodemographic variables with an impact on the knowledge of, attitudes toward, and skills in EBNP include age, marital status, and educational background. Older nurses find it problematic to apply EBNP, and their level of relevant knowledge and skills is lower; whereas, those with university education possess the best EBNP-related skills, and they are also more eager to expand them and apply them in their work. The work-related variables with an impact on the knowledge of, attitudes toward, and skills in EBNP among nurses include work experience, which has a negative effect on applying EBNP and the skills associated with it. The type of school from which the nurses graduated and the nursing specialisation training also have a strong impact on expanding nurses’ competence in EBNP.