The use of evidenced‐based information by nurses and midwives to inform practice

Ven Veeramah

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2016, vol. 25, issue 3-4, 340-350

Abstract: Aims and objectives To examine the implementation of evidence‐based information by nurses and midwives to inform their practice. Background It is widely recognised that the main benefits of using evidence‐based information are to improve and update clinical practice and to enhance the quality of care and outcomes for patients. However, despite a large body of research showing that nurses and midwives have positive attitudes towards evidence‐based practice , its implementation remains a considerable and significant challenge. Design This was a cross‐sectional on‐line survey. Methods A self‐completed questionnaire was used to collect data from a convenience sample of 386 nursing and midwifery diplomates and graduates from June–December 2013. One hundred and seventy‐two participants completed the questionnaire, giving a response rate of 44·6%. Results/Findings The majority of respondents expressed very positive attitude towards evidence‐based practice and nearly everyone felt that this should become an important part of daily practice. A significant number stated that they have regular access to research through a number of relevant databases and the Internet at their place of work and evidence‐based guidelines relevant to their speciality were also available. The two top barriers perceived by respondents were lack of time to search for relevant evidence‐based information and being able to make time during working hours to look for new information. The most popular strategy suggested was to ensure evidence‐based information is readily available in a form which nurses and midwives can easily understand the implications for their practice. Conclusion Health services and government agencies should make a concerted effort to make time for nurses and midwives to access, appraise and use evidence‐based information to inform practice. Relevance to clinical practice More resources including protected time should be made available to support nurses and midwives to use evidence‐based information to improve the quality of care provided.

Date: 2016
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:wly:jocnur:v:25:y:2016:i:3-4:p:340-350

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