Evidence-based nursing-How is it understood by bedside nurses? A phenomenographic study in surgical settings

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Evidence-based healthcare is crucial but challenging to implement in nursing.
• Nurses' perceptions of evidence-based nursing (EBN) significantly influence their clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and describe nurses' understanding of evidence-based nursing (EBN) in clinical practice.
• To explore variations in how nurses perceive and engage with EBN.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative explorative design utilizing a phenomenographic approach.
• Interviews conducted with 21 nurses in Swedish surgical wards.

Main Results:

• Three distinct understandings of EBN were identified among nurses.
• 1. EBN as a fragmented and difficult concept, not integrated into practice.
• 2. EBN as an important approach, guided by experienced colleagues and students.
• 3. EBN as a process that nurses should develop and lead.

Conclusions:

• Nurses' understandings of EBN in surgical settings are diverse.
• Nurse managers play a key role in establishing a shared understanding of EBN.
• Findings can guide nurse managers in promoting a comprehensive EBN approach and identifying facilitators for quality improvement.