Modeling the individual determinants of research utilization

Despite more than two decades of investigation, our accumulated knowledge about what influences nurses' use of research is underdeveloped. This study's objectives were to develop and test a series of structural equation models that included individual factors believed to influence research utilization. Estimates of the models were obtained using maximum likelihood estimation. Model fit was assessed by examining chi-square, the adjusted goodness of fit index, and the standardized residuals. Within a simple model that permitted only direct effects and controlled for instrumental, conceptual, and persuasive research utilization, 3 of 26 concepts exerted significant effects on research utilization. These were a positive attitude toward research, belief suspension, and in-services attended. These results support the assertion that our descriptive body of research on the determinants of research utilization is underdeveloped, limiting our ability to design and test effective strategies to increase the use of research findings in nursing practice.