Implementing Evidence Informed Practice Changes: Barriers, Facilitators, and Work Environments

This study examined nurses' perspectives about the barriers and facilitators to implementing research findings and evidence into practice.

Work environments play an essential role in implementation and innovation; however, much of the research regarding evidence-based practice focuses on nurses' knowledge and skills, leaving the work environments unexamined.

A mixed method survey design was used. Data collection included an electronic survey and open questions. Analysis included descriptive statistics and narrative analysis using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.

Attitudes about implementing evidence into practice were positive. Identified barriers included lack of time and knowledge, change fatigue, and complex internal processes; facilitators included supportive colleagues, knowledgeable mentors, and access to libraries and other resources.

Implementing evidence into practice is facilitated by committing organizational resources, fostering supportive work environments, integrating evidence into quality improvement projects, offering continuing education, and reducing the complexity of translating evidence into practice and the number of institution-wide initiatives.