The Effect of Evidence-Based Nursing Attitudes on Nonpharmacological Postoperative Pain Management Attitudes

This study aimed to examine the effect of nurses' attitudes toward evidence-based nursing (EBN) on their attitudes toward nonpharmacological postoperative pain management. Additionally, the relationship between sociodemographic/professional characteristics and these attitudes was evaluated.

This descriptive and correlational cross-sectional study was conducted between February and March 2026 with 165 nurses working in surgical units in Konya, Türkiye. Data were collected using the Sociodemographic Information Form, the Attitude Toward Evidence-Based Nursing Scale (AEBNS), and the Attitudes Toward Nonpharmacological Interventions in Postoperative Pain Management Scale (ANPIPMS). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, ANOVA, correlation, and linear regression analyses.

The mean total score of AEBNS was 47.35 ± 4.53, and the mean total score of ANPIPMS was 38.61 ± 5.01. A positive, weak, and statistically significant correlation was found between attitudes toward EBN and attitudes toward nonpharmacological pain management (r = 0.185; p = .017). A significant association was identified, particularly between the "Emotions" subdimension of AEBNS and total ANPIPMS scores (r = 0.233; p = .003). Nurses who reported always using scientific evidence in clinical practice had significantly higher EBN attitude scores (p = .034). No significant differences were found in sociodemographic variables and scale scores (p > .05).

There is a positive but weak relationship between nurses' attitudes toward evidence-based nursing and their attitudes toward nonpharmacological postoperative pain management. Emotional and behavioral components of EBN attitudes appear to be more strongly associated with motivation and sustainability of nonpharmacological interventions. Encouraging the use of evidence in clinical settings may facilitate the integration of nonpharmacological pain management practices.