Clinical nurses' knowledge of evidence-based practice: Constructing a framework to evaluate a multifaceted intervention for implementing EBP
Bernice Mott
Blacktown Mt Druitt Health Service, Sydney NSW
Joanne Nolan
Blacktown Mt Druitt Health Service, Sydney NSW
Nadia Zarb
Blacktown Mt Druitt Health Service, Sydney NSW
Vanessa Arnison
Blacktown Mt Druitt Health Service, Sydney NSW
Roxan Chan
Blacktown Mt Druitt Health Service, Sydney NSW
Tracey Codner
Blacktown Mt Druitt Health Service, Sydney NSW
Therese Casey
Blacktown Mt Druitt Health Service, Sydney NSW
Bronwyn Jenkins
Blacktown Mt Druitt Health Service, Sydney NSW
Georgiana Ulrych
Blacktown Mt Druitt Health Service, Sydney NSW
Christine Blackburn
Blacktown Mt Druitt Health Service, Sydney NSW
Linda Glanfield
Blacktown Mt Druitt Health Service, Sydney NSW
Elizabeth J Halcomb
School of Nursing and Midwifery and Family, Community Health Research Group (FaCH), College of Health and Science, University of Western Sydney, Sydney NSW
Patricia M Davidson
Centre of Cardiovascular and Chronic Care, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney NSW; Curtin University, Perth WA
PP: 096 - 104
Abstract
Critical reflection upon nursing practice is pivotal in achieving optimal patient outcomes. Implicit in this statement is knowledge about and an understanding of the implementation of evidence-based practice (EBP).
This study sought to evaluate baseline knowledge in order to assess and inform a multifaceted intervention to promote EBP in a multi-site facility in Western Sydney, Australia. On two consecutive days in February 2003, a convenience sample of 229 nurses were surveyed using a five-item, investigator developed, written survey tool. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Although the majority of respondents (n=143: 62%) stated that they were aware of EBP, a considerable number (n=86: 38%) stated they had not previously heard of the term. Of concern, 43% (n=99) of respondents were unable to identify a source of information and resources about EBP.
The results of this observational, descriptive survey underscore the importance of ongoing strategic interventions to improve knowledge, access and implementation of EBP amongst clinical nurses. This study also provides baseline data upon which to evaluate local interventions to promote knowledge of EBP amongst clinicians.
Keywords
evidence-based practice; observational study; survey
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