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

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.

Keywords: attitudes; barriers; evidence-based guidelines; evidence-based practice; midwives; nurses.