Do nurses have the information resources and skills for research utilization?

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Information Science
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Access to information resources and information management skills are crucial facilitators for nurses to integrate nursing research into their practice.
• Despite the importance, there are identified gaps in current resources and required training for nurses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess existing information resources and nurses' information management skills in Ontario hospitals.
• To identify needs for additional resources and training to support the use of nursing research.

Main Methods:

• Mailed questionnaires were distributed to 71 vice-presidents or directors of nursing in hospitals across two Ontario regions.
• Data collected focused on information resources, nurses' information management skills, and perceived needs for enhancement.

Main Results:

• Most vice-presidents acknowledged the need for enhanced information resources and skills among nurses for literature access and evaluation.
• While regional resources and training opportunities were similar, hospital-level variations were noted.

Conclusions:

• Improving information resources and management skills is essential for nurses to utilize research findings.
• Leveraging information technology and administrative support can help overcome barriers and improve patient care through evidence-based practice.