Evidence-based Practice Competencies Research Articles

Organizational evidence-based practice culture, implementation leadership, and nurses: A bidirectional mediation model.

This study aimed to explore 1) factors that influenced the evidence-based practice competencies and behaviors of clinical nurses and 2) the interaction between the organizational evidence-based practice culture, head nurses' implementation leadership, and nurses' evidence-based practice competencies and behaviors. The significance of organizational evidence-based practice culture and head nurses' implementation leadership in enhancing nurses' evidence-based practice competencies and behavior is widely recognized in healthcare settings. However, there is limited knowledge of how these factors influence nurses' evidence-based practice competencies and behavior. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at 10 hospitals in China. Data were collected via online questionnaires from October to December 2020, utilizing social characteristic questionnaires, the Evidence-Based Practice Questionnaire, the Organizational Culture and Readiness Scale for System-wide Implementation ofEvidence-Based Practice, and the Implementation Leadership Scale. All data were imported into the IBM Statistical Program for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 27.0 and PROCESS version 4.1 macro on SPSS for statistical analysis. The design and reporting of our study adhered to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) Checklist. We received 1047 (99.15%) valid questionnaires. The multiple linear regression analysis showed that significant factors were organizational evidence-based practice culture, implementation leadership, and years of experience in nursing. After controlling for the impact of the covariate (years of experience in nursing), it was found that organizational evidence-based practice culture partially mediated the relationship between head nurses' implementation leadership and nurses' evidence-based practice competencies and behaviors. Additionally, head nurses' implementation leadership partially mediated the relationship between organizational evidence-based practice culture and nurses' evidence-based practice competencies and behaviors. Organizational evidence-based practice culture, head nurses' implementation leadership, and years of experience in nursing significantly predict nurses' evidence-based practice competencies and behaviors. Organizational evidence-based practice culture and head nurses' implementation leadership mutually mediated their influence on nurses' implementation of evidence-based practice. Head nurses should proactively seek opportunities to enhance their implementation leadership, such as participating in training programs (e.g., mentoring and coaching programs) and attending conferences, workshops, or seminars on implementation leadership. Policymakers should also consider providing more policy support for implementing leadership development and cultivating a positive evidence-based practice culture.

Perspectives on how evidence-based practice changes over time: A qualitative exploration of occupational therapy and physical therapy graduates.

The integration of evidence-based practice (EBP) into rehabilitation education programs has been widespread, but little is known about how graduates' EBP competencies evolve over time. To explore how and why the use of EBP by occupational therapists (OTs) and physical therapists (PTs) evolves during the first 3 years of clinical practice. We used an interpretive description methodology. We conducted semi-structured interviews with OTs and PTs who participated in a minimum of three out of four time points in a previous longitudinal pan-Canadian mixed methods study. Data analysis was guided by Braun and Clarke's approach to thematic analysis. Seventeen clinicians (13 OTs and 4 PTs) participated in the study. Our analysis identified six overarching themes: (1) evolution of "what EBP is and what it means"; (2) over time, evidence takes a back seat; (3) patients and colleagues have a vital and perennial role in clinical decision making; (4) continuing professional development plays a vital role in EBP; (5) personal attitudes and attributes influence EBP; and (6) organizational factors influence EBP. Our study highlights the dynamic nature of EBP use among OTs and PTs in the first 3 years of clinical practice, emphasizing the need for contextualized approaches and ongoing support to promote evidence-informed healthcare in rehabilitation.

Effectiveness of Training in Evidence-Based Practice on the Development of Communicative Skills in Nursing Students: A Quasi-Experimental Design.

Communication skills (CSs) and evidence-based practice (EBP) are key foundations for offering personalized and quality nursing care. CS that results in open communication is fundamental for applying EBP. The objective of the study was to assess the relationship between the acquisition of EBP competencies and learning CS after taking an EBP course in the nursing degree. Pre-test-post-test quasi-experimental study without a control group. The study population comprised fourth-year undergraduate nursing students. Before and after an EBP course, students completed a questionnaire on CS competence (HP-CSS) and EBP competence (EBP-COQ). The EBP course lasts for 15 weeks, with 150 h of work for the student. Out of these 150 h, 60 are conducted in person, while the remaining 90 h are for independent or group work, utilizing the flipped classroom methodology. Bivariate, correlational, pairwise Student's t-test, and linear regression multivariate analyses were performed. The sample was composed of 153 students. After completing the EBP course, there was a statistically significant improvement in informative communication (p = 0.046) and assertiveness (p = 0.018). However, there were no observed changes in empathy, respect, and the total score of the CS competence. The results from the multivariate analysis showed that the dimensions of attitude towards EBP and EBP knowledge had a positive relation to three of the four dimensions of the CS and overall competence. Regarding the students' variables and characteristics, admission through special programs for athletes and older students (p < 0.001) and being female (p = 0.004) were positively statistically associated with empathy. EBP training positively affects the development of CS in nursing students, as shown by significant improvements in the total scores of the CS and the dimensions of informative communication and assertiveness after the intervention. This study demonstrates the initial applicability and usefulness of an EBP training program for the development of CS in nursing students.

Incorporating Evidence-Based Practice Learning Activities Throughout Family Nurse Practitioner Clinical Practicum Courses.

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is crucial to high-quality health care, yet nurse practitioner graduates report low levels of confidence in their EBP abilities. This may be because of limited incorporation of EBP learning opportunities outside of foundational course-work. Family nurse practitioner (FNP) program faculty incorporated EBP learning activities across the three-semester clinical year curriculum, and the activities scaffolded in complexity. Initial activities included appraisal and application of clinical practice guidelines to patient case scenarios. Later, students used the seven steps of EBP to present frequently asked patient questions and EBP clinical challenges in their clinical rotations to their peers. This innovative way to thread EBP across the clinical year allowed faculty to continue to evaluate and guide students toward EBP competency. The integration of EBP learning activities across the clinical year is a feasible strategy to further expand FNP student competency in EBP. [J Nurs Educ. 2024;63(X):XXX-XXX.].

Evaluation of Evidence-Based Practice Competency among Greek Undergraduate Nursing Students.

For several years, the global scientific community has accepted and recognized the importance of evidence-based practice for nursing science. The main factor for the implementation of evidence-based practice is the competence of undergraduate nursing students towards evidence-based practice, so that they as active nurses are ready for its application in their clinical practice, in order to provide better care for their patients. The aim of the present study is to examine the level of evidence-based practice competency evaluated with the self-reported Evidence-Based Practice Competence Questionnaire. It is important to mention that such a study has not been conducted on nursing students in Greece, but only on registered nurses. A quantitative study based on cross-sectional design was conducted from February to June 2022 in a convenience sample of Greek undergraduate nursing students. The SPSS 26.0 program was used to perform descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses. A total of 175 undergraduate students participated at the Hellenic Mediterranean University Department of Nursing (Greece), specifically from the 2nd and 3rd academic years. The mean score of the Evidence-Based Practice Competence Questionnaire for nursing undergraduate students was 3.03 ± 0.26, indicating moderate evidence-based practice. Among the Evidence-Based Practice Competence Questionnaire dimensions, mean scores of 3.03 ± 0.32 for attitude toward evidence-based practice, 3.01 ± 0.49 for skills in evidence-based practice, and 3.03 ± 0.49 for knowledge in evidence-based practice were obtained. Significant differences among participants' mean Evidence-Based Practice Competence Questionnaire scores regarding gender (p = 0.766), age (p = 0.400), academic year (p = 0.153), and training in the field of research methodology (p = 0.538) were not found. It appears that the level of readiness towards evidence-based practice is mediocre among undergraduate nursing students at a university in Greece. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out new studies in the future, so that there is a correct approach of all the elements that contribute to the readiness of nursing undergraduate students regarding evidence-based practice.

Differentiation and Integration of Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Quality Improvement.

Substantial discrepancies exist in how research, evidence-based practice (EBP), and quality improvement (QI) are taught to nursing students across academic levels. As nursing education programs adopt the new The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education and move toward competency-based education, prelicensure and advanced nursing students will need to demonstrate research, EBP, and QI competencies; therefore, faculty must possess the knowledge and skills to teach these paradigms' differences and integration. An evidence-based approach that builds on the literature and our experience as nurses and educators was used to develop this educational innovation. An innovative representation in table and figure format of the differences and interdependence of research, EBP, and QI is presented herein. These documents clarify the evolving differences, similarities, and synergies as a framework for faculty development. [J Nurs Educ. 2024;63(X):XXX-XXX.].

Strategies to improve evidence-based practice competencies in nursing education: Addressing the need of the hour.

Strategies to improve evidence-based practice competencies in nursing education: Addressing the need of the hour.

Self-Perceived Evidence-Based Practice Competency and Associated Factors among Nurses at a County Referral Hospital in Kenya

Self-Perceived Evidence-Based Practice Competency and Associated Factors among Nurses at a County Referral Hospital in Kenya

Evidence - based practice competency among nursing students at the University Of Medicine And Pharmacy At Ho Chi Minh City And Associated Factors

ABSTRACT Background: Evidence - based practice (EBP) in healthcare is an essential trend for improving patient safety and care quality, making it crucial to ensure EBP competency among nursing students. This study aimed to assess EBP competency among nursing students and identify associated factors. Methods: A descriptive cross - sectional study was conducted on 230 nursing students in second, third, and fourth year in the University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City. An online survey questionnaire was emailed to the students during the sampling period from ... Results: The participants had an average age of 21.2 ± 0.97 years. The majority were female (89.1%) and of the Kinh ethnic group (85.7%). The average EBP competency score of the students was 3.56 ± 0.39. Specifically, EBP - related competencies of the students were at a moderate level or higher (&gt; 2.61), with the highest average score observed for attitude at 3.77 ± 0.45. Factors such as research and EBP course grades, confidence levels in computer skills and English proficiency, frequency of EBP application, completion of the thesis, and participation in research clubs all positively influenced students’ EBP competency (p &lt; 0.05). Knowledge, skills, and attitude regarding EBP are closely related. Students with good knowledge usually have good skills and a positive attitude towards EBP (p &lt; 0.01). Conclusions: Nursing students demonstrated EBP competency at a moderate level or higher. The identified associated factors provide a foundation for enhancing the role of EBP among nursing students.

Knowledge, skills, and attitudes of nursing students on evidence - based practice

ABSTRACT Background: Evidence - based practice (EBP) has not only emerged as a trend but has also established itself as a standard in nursing professional practice. Consequently, it is imperative that undergraduate nursing students are proficient in EBP before graduation. This study aims to evaluate nursing students’ competencies (knowledge, skills, and attitudes) in EBP. Methods: 230 nursing students participated in the cross - sectional study. Data were collected using the “Evidence - Based Practice Competencies Questionnaire” (EBP - COQ), which was translated into Vietnamese. Results: The average score of nursing students on the EBP - COQ was 3.56 ± 0.39. Among the components, attitude had the highest score, with 3.77 ± 0.45, followed by knowledge with a score of 3.38 ± 0.53, and skills with the lowest score of 3.27 ± 0.52. Conclusions: The competency of nursing students regarding EBP was found to be good. The results of the study provide valuable insights that can assist nursing educators in guiding their teaching of EBP for nursing students.

Bottlenecks to Learning Evidence-Based Practice: Recommendations for Nursing Faculty.

Evidence-based practice (EBP) competency is an expected outcome of baccalaureate education; however, research indicates nursing graduates enter practice with competency gaps. The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges accelerated baccalaureate students experience when learning the steps of EBP. A qualitative, descriptive design was used to identify bottlenecks to student learning. Learning the steps of EBP in an accelerated format was challenging for students. Data analysis revealed 3 types of bottlenecks that stalled learning: cognitive, procedural, and emotional. Faculty build EBP competency by making explicit the steps that help students progress. Scaffolded learning, collaborative partnerships, and reflective practices are recommended to support student learning in accelerated formats.

Development of a Novel Evidence-Based Practice-Specific Competency for Doctor of Physical Therapy Students in Clinical Education: A Modified Delphi Approach.

Evidence-based practice (EBP) results in high-quality care and decreases unwarranted variation in practice. Few performance criteria related to EBP are included in physical therapy clinical education (CE) performance measures, despite EBP requirements in Doctor of Physical Therapy education. The purpose of this study was to develop EBP-specific competencies that may be used for Doctor of Physical Therapy students for use throughout CE. Thirteen subject matter experts (SME) participated in this study. Subject matter experts were asked to rank each core EBP competency, from a previously described framework, using a 3-point Likert scale, which included "Not Essential," "Essential," and "Not Sure." A consensus of 70% or greater for the "Essential" rating advanced the competency to the final Delphi round, whereas a consensus of 70% or greater for the "Not Essential" rating was required for competency elimination. Subject matter experts voted to either "Accept" or "Modify" the competencies that had reached the inclusion consensus threshold. All competencies that reached consensus for inclusion after all 3 rounds were included in the final EBP Domain of Competence. Consensus was achieved in round one for 38% (n = 26) of items. In round 2, a consensus was achieved for 20% (n = 8) of items. Of the items remaining after rounds 1 and 2, 6 overarching competencies were identified, and all remaining items served as descriptions and specifications in the final EBP Domain of Competence. The 6 competencies developed from this study constitute the EBP Domain of Competence and may be used throughout CE to assess students' EBP competency in clinical practice.

The role of evidence-based practice and empathy in shared decision-making attitudes among newly graduated nurses: A cross-sectional study.

Examine the levels of variables and explore drivers associated with shared decision-making attitudes among newly graduated nurses. This was a descriptive and cross-sectional study. From August 2022 to October 2022, a cross-section of 216 newly graduated nurses from four comprehensive A-level hospitals in northern China was recruited using convenience sampling. Newly graduated nurses are generally defined as nurses with a service period of six months to one year. Data were collected using an online questionnaire support platform, including the Nursing Shared Decision-Making Attitude scale, Jefferson scale of Empathy-Health profession students and the Health Sciences Evidence-Based Practice questionnaire. All data were analysed descriptively, and correlational analysis and hierarchical regression were used to make identical connections between variables. Newly graduated nurses supported shared decision-making. Perceptions of shared decision-making were correlated with the experiences of empathy and evidence-based practice. Additionally, perspective-taking of empathy and beliefs, and the ability to search for and apply existing scientific findings of evidence-based practice had a significant impact on more positive attitudes. The survey showed that acceptance of shared decision-making was positive among newly graduated nurses. Clinical nursing managers and teachers should pay attention to cultivating the evidence-based practice and empathy of newly graduated nurses to adopt an optimistic attitude towards shared decision-making in the long term. The survey addresses attitudes of shared decision-making among newly graduatednurses and determines whether empathy and evidence-based practice has an impact on it. The main finding is that newly graduated nurses have an optimistic outlook on the implementation of shared decision-making. This survey showed that empathy and evidence-based practice competencies are associated with shared decision-making attitudes among newly graduated nurses. The results of this survey have an impact on educational institutions and hospitals in the form of recommendations. Several training programmes on empathy and evidence-based practice can help adopt the shared decision-making attitudes of newly graduated nurses. No patient or public contribution.

Teaching Evidence-Based Practice Competencies to Meet Professional Practice Needs.

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is a major concept threaded throughout nursing education, yet competencies are not clearly identified in The Essentials. Nurse leaders'EBP competency expectations for professional practice were explored to inform competency-based education for students and practicing nurses. A secondary aim explored potential effects of misinformation on EBP. Descriptive qualitative inquiry was performed with a focus group of 6 clinical nurse leaders. EBP expectations were identified, discriminating between novice entry level and advanced-level nurses. Participants emphasized asking questions, linking evidence to practice, and acknowledging that evidence changes over time. All advanced-level nurses were expected to apply, lead, and teach EBP. Post pandemic, nurses need to reclaim evidence-based practices, critically appraise evidence, and educate patients and families to address misinformation. Information learned will inform competency-based EBP education for students and nurses in academic and clinical settings.

Primary care nurses’ knowledge of palliative care, attitude towards caring for dying patients, and their relationship with evidence-based practice

Background &amp; Aim: Palliative care is an approach designed for critically ill patients, improving their quality of life and alleviating suffering through early detection, proper assessment, and treatment of pain and other problems, whether physical, psychosocial, or spiritual. The purpose of this study was to assess nurses' knowledge of palliative care and attitudes toward caring for dying patients and their relationship with evidence-based practice. Methods &amp; Materials: A cross-sectional study design was employed to collect data from 565 nurses working in primary healthcare organizations from January 2022 to March 2023. An online questionnaire included four parts: demographic and professional characteristics, PCQN, FATCOD, and EBPQ questionnaires. An independent T-test, One-Way ANOVA, and Kendall tau rank correlation coefficient, hierarchical multiple regression were performed. Results: Nurses’ palliative care knowledge level was low (mean score: 9.06±2.93). The majority of nurses (93%) have a neutral or negative attitude toward caring for dying patients (94.50±12.41). The obtained score (4.39 ±1.05) on the EBPQ scale indicates an average level of competence in evidence-based practice. Work experience (β=0.534; &lt;0.001) and competencies in evidence-based practice (β=0.136; p=0.001) are statistically significant factors that affect knowledge of palliative care. The aspect of Knowledge/skills in EBP is the most significant (β=0.122; p=0.005). Conclusion: An insufficient level of nurses' knowledge about palliative care and a neutral or negative attitude towards caring for dying patients were revealed. The results also indicate that much attention and resources should be directed toward improving the level of knowledge of nurses in the field of evidence-based practice.

Factors Associated with Evidence-Based Practice Competencies among Taiwanese Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is an essential component of healthcare practice that ensures the delivery of high-quality care by integrating the best available evidence. This study aimed to explore factors influencing EBP among nursing professionals in Taiwan. A cross-sectional survey study was conducted with 752 registered nurses and nurse practitioners recruited from a regional teaching hospital in southern Taiwan. EBP competency was evaluated using the Taipei Evidence-Based Practice Questionnaire (TEBPQ). The results showed that participation in evidence-based courses or training within the past year had the strongest association with EBP competencies (Std. B = 0.157, p < 0.001). Holding a graduate degree (Std. B = 0.151, p < 0.001), working in gynecology or pediatrics (Std. B = 0.126, p < 0.001), searching the literature in electronic databases (Std. B = 0.072, p = 0.039), and able to read academic articles in English (Std. B = 0.088, p = 0.005) were significantly associated with higher TEBPQ scores. Younger age (Std. B = -0.105, p = 0.005) and male gender (Std. B = 0.089, p = 0.010) were also identified as factors contributing to higher EBP competencies. The study highlights the importance of ongoing professional development, including EBP training and language proficiency, in enhancing EBP competencies among nursing professionals in Taiwan.

간호정보활용능력, 근거기반실무역량 및 문제해결능력 향상을 위한 다학제간 팀티칭교육 효과

Objectives This study was conducted to confirm the nursing information literacy, evidence-based practice competency, and problem-solving ability of nursing students before and after education through ‘Nursing Information and Digital Convergence’ multidisciplinary team teaching education.&#x0D; Methods This study conducted a convenience sample of second-year nursing students at a university, and the data collection period was from March 17 to May 30, 2023. The collected data was used in R 4.2.2 version and analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-test according to the characteristics of the variables. The relationship between variables was analyzed using Pearson's Correlation and the sobel test after path analysis to determine the mediating effect of evidence-based practical competency in the influence on nursing information literacy and problem-solving ability in the pre and post test. For the sem function and sobel test of the lavaan package, the sobel function of the multilevel package was used.&#x0D; Results First, nursing information literacy, evidence-based practical competency, and problem-solving ability all showed significant increases before and after multidisciplinary team teaching. Second, the positive correlation between nursing information literacy and evidence-based practical competency, nursing information literacy and problem-solving ability, and evidence-based practical competency and problem-solving ability before and after multidisciplinary team teaching increased significantly. Third, the impact of information literacy on problem-solving ability was B=.431, which gave a significant positive influence at the p&lt;.001 level, and the Sobel test results showed that there was a partial mediation effect at the p&lt;.001 level.&#x0D; Conclusions Through this study, we were able to identify the nursing information literacy, evidence-based practical competency, and problem-solving ability of nursing students before and after teaching through the ‘Nursing Information and Digital Convergence’ multidisciplinary team teaching education. It was found that educational design for multidisciplinary team teaching education through convergence with various majors was necessary when administering nursing information-related courses.&#x0D;

Enhancing Evidence-Based Practice Competence and Professional Skills Using Infographics as a Pedagogical Strategy in Health Science Students: Insights from the InfoHealth Project.

Infographics have been recognised as effective visual tools for concise and accessible communication of data and information in various higher education disciplines, particularly in medical education. However, there is a lack of research on their impact on professional skills, difficulty levels, motivation, and overall satisfaction in health science students. Thus, the present study aimed to analyse the knowledge and usage of graphical resources among health science students and evaluate their competencies, the level of challenge they encountered, and their motivation and satisfaction after completing an infographic creation activity. The InfoHealth educational innovation project, conducted by five teachers from the Faculty of Medicine, served as the context for this study, with 143 students voluntarily participating. The intervention involved students working in groups of 2-3 and selecting their own topics for the infographics while receiving instruction, online guidance, and feedback from teachers. A questionnaire was administered to assess students' perception of skill development and satisfaction with the activity. The findings revealed that schemes were the most recognized and used graphical summaries, compared to synoptic tables and Venn diagrams. The activity led to an increase in professional skills acquisition, motivation, and satisfaction, positively impacting students' interest in evidence-based practice and reinforcing their knowledge. This study highlights the potential of infographics as a pedagogical tool for competency development and student engagement in health science education, suggesting the need for further research comparing infographics with traditional study methods and involving multidisciplinary teams to promote essential skills for future clinical practice.

Strategies for incorporating evidence-based practice into nurse residency programs: A scoping review.

The American Nurses Credentialing Center's (ANCC's) Practice Transition Accreditation Program (PTAP) establishes standards for nurse residency programs to elevate and optimize the skills, knowledge, and attitudes of new nurses participating in nurse residency programs. Evidence-based practice (EBP) is foundational to providing safe nursing care. One of the National Academy of Medicine's (NAM's) 2020 goals stated that 90% of clinical decisions would be supported by the best available evidence to attain the best patient outcomes. Nurse residency programs can benefit from evidence-based strategies to develop EBP competencies in new nurses. The purpose of this scoping review was to synthesize the literature around strategies for incorporating EBP into nurse residency programs across the United States. This scoping review was informed by the JBI (formerly known as the Joanna Briggs Institute) methodology for scoping reviews. Searches were conducted by a health science librarian in PubMed and CINAHL with Full Text. Keywords and their synonyms, Medical Subject Headings (MeSH; PubMed), and Subject Headings (CINAHL with Full Text) were used. Covidence, a literature review management program, was used to organize the literature and manage the review. Title, abstract, and full-text reviews were completed within Covidence using three teams of two independent reviewers. Four hundred and thirty-eight citations were imported into Covidence. Ten articles were retained for the final review. Three strategies for incorporating EBP into nurse residency programs emerged from the literature: (1) exposure of nurse residents to existing organizational resources, (2) completion of online EBP modules, and (3) completion of an EBP project. The incorporation of EBP competencies in nurse residency programs aligns with NAM's and ANCC's goals, yet a paucity of evidence exists to guide curriculum development in nurse residency programs. This scoping review corroborates the need for further research to inform best practices for implementing EBP into nurse residency programs.

Evidence-Based Practice: The Essential Competency of Nursing Students for the Aging World

The qualitative research explored the perceptions toward evidence-based practice competency of nursing students in caring for older adults. Nine participants met the criteria using purposive sampling and were invited to join in the study of evidence-based practice experiences in nursing students. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Three main themes emerged: 1) Knowledge enhancing evidence-based practice with three sub-themes: implementing the nursing process, searching for trustworthy information, and selecting appropriate guidelines; 2) Skills driving evidence-based practice with three sub-themes including nursing practice skills, critical thinking skills, and language skills; and 3) Attitude fostering evidence-based practice with two sub-themes as well as increasing the quality of care for older adults and improving the nursing profession. Therefore, the following study should test component factors of evidence-based geriatric nursing competencies for nursing students, leading to developing the competency of nursing students in care for older adults in the future.