Assessing Evidence-Based Practice Knowledge: An Innovative Approach by a Nursing Research Council

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Evidence-Based Practice (EBP)
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Assessed nurses' knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward evidence-based practice (EBP).
• Informed development plans for EBP implementation and nurse-led research.
• Identified specific areas needing improvement in EBP competency.

Purpose of the Study:

• Describe the structure and processes of nursing research councils.
• Facilitate nurse-led research studies in an urban community teaching hospital.
• Establish a framework for implementing EBP and nurse-led research.

Main Methods:

• Single-site, cross-sectional, anonymous online survey (Evidence-Based Practice Questionnaire [EBPQ]).
• Survey emailed to 850 participants; data analyzed using SPSS v25.
• Implemented new strategies to improve survey response rates.

Main Results:

• Initial response rate of 11% improved to 57.5% with new strategies.
• Highest EBPQ scores were for 'attitude,' followed by 'knowledge/skills,' and 'practice.'
• Lowest scores indicated challenges in critical appraisal, research skills, and information technology.

Conclusions:

• EBPQ scores align with previous research findings.
• Developed strategies offer a transferable framework for institutions implementing EBP.
• The study provides a model for enhancing nurse-led research initiatives.