Knowledge And Practice Of Evidence Based Practice Among Nurses

Project and Seminar Material for Nursing (Science)

Knowledge And Practice Of Evidence Based Practice Among Nurses (Daniel)

Abstract

In the contemporary nursing, the clamour for scientifically based nursing practice necessitates a paradigm shift from practice based on intuition and tradition to practices that can be scientifically verified. This study assessed the knowledge and practice of evidence based practice among nurses of Specialist Hospital, Offa, Kwara State. The descriptive study utilized validated questionnaire developed by the researchers. 110 questionnaires were administered to nurses who met the inclusion criteria. Data collected were coded and analyzed using descriptive statistic of Pearson correlation. The findings of the study revealed that only 35.5% were degree holders. The result also revealed that there is no significant relationship between Nurses knowledge and utilization of evidence-based nursing practice. (P-value of 0.06). And there is no significant relationship between professional qualification of nurses and utilization of evidence-based nursing practice. (P-value 0.859).Considering the identified barriers to utilization of evidence-based nursing practice such as poor attitude of nurses to change, lack of knowledge of evidence-based nursing practice, inadequate organizational support. It is recommended that sensitisation and creating more awareness for nurses’ will go a long way to bridge this gap.

Table of Content

Title Page
Certification
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Table of Content
List of Tables
Abstract

Chapter One:

Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study
1.2 Statement of the Problem
1.3 Objective of the Study
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Research Hypothesis
1.6 Significance of the Study
1.7 Scope of the Study
1.8 Limitation of the Study
1.9 Definition of Terms
1.10 Organisations of the Study

Chapter Two:

Review of Literature

2.1 Conceptual Framework
2.2 Theoretical Framework
2.3 Empirical Review

Chapter Three:

Research Methodology

3.1 Research Design
3.2 Population of the Study
3.3 Sample Size Determination
3.4 Sample Size Selection Technique and Procedure
3.5 Research Instrument and Administration
3.6 Method of Data Collection
3.7 Method of Data Analysis
3.8 Validity of the Study
3.9 Reliability of the Study
3.10 Ethical Consideration

Chapter Four:

Data Presentation and Analysis

4.1 Data Presentation
4.2 Analysis of Data
4.3 Answering Research Questions
4.4 Test of Hypotheses

Chapter Five:

Summary, Conclusion and Recommendation

5.1 Summary
5.2 Conclusion
5.3 Recommendation
References
APPENDIX
QUESTIONNAIRE

Chapter One

Introduction

1.1 Background to the Study

Evidence-based practice (EBP) has become an indispensable paradigm in contemporary healthcare, serving as a guiding framework for healthcare professionals to integrate the best available evidence with clinical expertise and patient values to inform decision-making and enhance patient outcomes (Sackett et al., 1996). In Nigeria, a country with a rapidly evolving healthcare system, nurses play a crucial role in delivering quality care, making their engagement with evidence-based practice a matter of paramount importance.

Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, are entrusted with the responsibility of delivering safe and effective care to diverse patient populations. Embracing evidence-based practice empowers nurses to stay abreast of the latest research findings and innovations, ensuring that their clinical decisions are rooted in the best available evidence. This is particularly relevant in a dynamic healthcare environment like Nigeria, where the burden of diseases, healthcare demands, and resource constraints present unique challenges.

Despite the recognized significance of evidence-based practice, the integration of research findings into nursing practice in Nigeria has encountered various barriers. Limited access to up-to-date research materials, inadequate training in critical appraisal skills, and a hierarchical healthcare system are among the challenges faced by Nigerian nurses (Oyebode et al., 2019; Igoli et al., 2020). Additionally, a prevailing reliance on tradition and experiential knowledge may impede the widespread adoption of evidence-based approaches among nursing professionals in the country.

The implementation of strategies aiming to improve the Evidence- Based Practice (EBP) competence of nurses in hospital settings has been the subject of multiple studies designed to improve patient health outcomes and professional standards among nurses. Successful adoption of EBP rests on the interaction between an appropriate setting or Prac- tice Environment and a culture of innovation and research among nurses (Chan et al., 2017; Leming-Lee and Watters, 2019; Renolen et al., 2019). EBP has become essential in supporting nurses’ practice, contrib- uting to improved quality of care through decreased variability, reduced costs, improved clinical safety, and greater satisfaction with professional growth (Speroni et al., 2020). However, the transfer of knowledge into care practice by nurses is progressing slowly due to a number of barriers: lack of knowledge of EBP and EBP competence, misconceptions or negative attitudes towards research and evidence-based care, lack of time and resources, and organizational constraints, such as lack of support and incentives (Duncombe, 2018; Mathieson et al., 2018; Mel- nyk et al., 2018; Shayan et al., 2019). Therefore, institutions should recognise the importance of the acquisition of EBP competence by healthcare professionals, as it will have a positive impact on both the institution itself and on patient health outcomes (Pereira et al., 2018; Skela-Saviˇc et al., 2017). Integrating EBP into care delivery is a priority for healthcare organizations worldwide as it is associated with improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness of healthcare delivery, better patient outcomes, and higher quality of care.

This has been demonstrated by the Magnet Recognition Program, in which excellence in evidence-based nursing practice is the basic principle for the effective delivery of healthcare services, supporting continuous improvement of Practice Environments (PEs) (Saunders and Vehvila¨inen-Julkunen, 2016). The implementation of EBP is directly related to more favourable PEs, as these are influenced by factors such as decentralised decision-making, leadership, autonomy, and accountability in care (Ruzafa-Martínez et al., 2020b). The characteristics of the environment play a key role in any strategy aiming to encourage the use of the best available knowl- edge on care provision (Lu et al., 2019). PEs may be defined as the set of organizational characteristics of a work environment facilitating or hindering professional nursing practice (Lake, 2002). Favourable PEs are characterised by factors such as: support from managers with a multi-faceted management structure and supervisory/coordinating staff who know how to delegate appropriately; good communication and conflict resolution channels between professionals from different disci- plines; and highly autonomous nurses, with control over their profes- sional practice and a tendency towards high job satisfaction (Speroni et al., 2020). In addition, relationships between nurses and physicians are more horizontal, because nurses are viewed as the backbone of hospital care, which undoubtedly translates into improved healthcare (Gaalan et al., 2019; Gunnarsdo´ttir et al., 2009).

This study aims to explore the current landscape of evidence-based practice among nurses in Nigeria, shedding light on the challenges faced and potential solutions to promote a culture of evidence-based care. By understanding the existing barriers and opportunities, policymakers, educators, and healthcare leaders can collaboratively work towards fostering an environment that nurtures and supports evidence-based nursing practice.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

While the significance of evidence-based practice (EBP) in healthcare is universally acknowledged, the integration of this paradigm among nurses in Nigeria faces notable challenges. Despite the growing importance of evidence-based care, Nigerian nurses encounter barriers that hinder the effective incorporation of research findings into their daily practice. These challenges span multiple domains, including limited access to up-to-date research materials, insufficient training in critical appraisal skills, and systemic obstacles within the healthcare infrastructure.

Research indicates that nurses in Nigeria often face barriers related to the accessibility of research literature. Oyebode et al. (2019) highlight that the lack of easy access to current and relevant research materials impedes nurses’ ability to stay abreast of the latest evidence. Additionally, the study conducted by Igoli et al. (2020) underscores the need for targeted interventions, as it reveals that nurses in Nigeria may have perceptions and attitudes that act as barriers to the effective implementation of evidence-based practice.

Moreover, the hierarchical nature of the healthcare system in Nigeria may contribute to the challenges faced by nurses in embracing evidence-based approaches. The traditional reliance on experiential knowledge, coupled with a limited culture of research utilization, poses significant obstacles to the successful integration of evidence-based practice within the nursing profession.

This study seeks to explore and address the multifaceted challenges that impede the knowledge and practice of evidence-based practice among nurses in Nigeria. By identifying and understanding these barriers, interventions can be developed to enhance the adoption of evidence-based approaches, ultimately improving the quality of nursing care in the Nigerian healthcare context.

1.3 Objective of the Study

The main objective of the study is to examine the knowledge and practice of evidence based practice among nurses, The specific objectives of the study are;

To assess the knowledge level of evidence-based nursing practice among professional nurses of Offa Specialist Hospital.
To assess the level of utilization of evidence-based nursing practice in the care of patient by nurses at Offa Specialist Hospital, Kwara State.
To determine the extent at which their knowledge about evidence-based nursing practice has influence the management of clients in the hospital
To identify the factors affecting the utilization of evidence-based nursing practice in the care of patient by the nurses.
To find out factors that can enhance effective utilization of evidence-based nursing practice in the care of patient.

1.4 Research Questions

What is the level of knowledge of professional nurses of Specialist Hospital Offa about evidence-based nursing practice?
What is the level of utilization of evidence-based nursing practice in the care of patient by the nurses at Offa Specialist Hospital, Offa, Kwara State?
What are the barriers to the successful utilization of evidence-based nursing practice in Offa Specialist Hospital?
Can evidence-based nursing practice be effectively utilized as a tool for providing holistic, scientifically based care for patients?

1.5 Hypothesis of the study

Ho: There is no significant relationship between nurses knowledge and utilization of evidence-based nursing.
Hi: There is a significant relationship between nurses knowledge and utilization of evidence-based nursing
Ho2: There is no significant relationship between the professional qualification of nurses and utilization of evidence -based nursing practice
Hi2: There is a significant relationship between the professional qualification of nurses and utilization of evidence -based nursing practice
H03: There is no significant relationship between nurses attitude and utilization of evidence-based nursing practice .
Hi3: There is a significant relationship between nurses attitude and utilization of evidence-based nursing practice.

1.6 Significance of the Study

The exploration of knowledge and practice of evidence-based practice (EBP) among nurses in Nigeria holds substantial significance for several key stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, policymakers, educators, and, most importantly, patients. This study addresses critical gaps in understanding and implementing evidence-based care within the Nigerian nursing context, offering valuable insights that can inform interventions and improvements in nursing practice.

Understanding and promoting evidence-based practice among nurses can directly impact patient outcomes. By integrating the best available evidence into clinical decision-making, nurses can contribute to improved patient safety, quality of care, and positive health outcomes (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2018). This study can identify strategies to bridge the gap between research and practice, ultimately benefiting the health and well-being of patients in Nigeria.

The findings of this study can inform tailored educational programs aimed at enhancing the capacity of Nigerian nurses in evidence-based practice. By identifying specific areas of knowledge gaps and barriers to implementation, educational interventions can be designed to empower nurses with the necessary skills and competencies to critically appraise and integrate research into their daily practice (Gerrish & Clayton, 2004).

Policymakers and healthcare leaders rely on empirical evidence to shape policies and allocate resources effectively. This study’s findings can provide a foundation for evidence-based policy development aimed at creating an enabling environment for nurses to engage in evidence-based practice. Improved resource allocation and policy support can contribute to the creation of a culture that values and promotes evidence-based care.

Given the global nature of healthcare challenges, insights gained from this study can contribute to the broader nursing knowledge base. Comparative analyses with studies from other regions can highlight shared challenges and effective strategies, fostering a global dialogue on evidence-based nursing practice.

In conclusion, this study is significant in its potential to catalyze positive change within the Nigerian nursing landscape. By addressing the barriers to knowledge and practice of evidence-based practice, it can pave the way for a more informed, competent, and empowered nursing workforce, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and a more effective healthcare system.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study will analyze the knowledge and practice of evidence based practice among nurses of Specialist Hospital, Offa, Kwara State. The study is limited to Specialist Hospital, Offa, Kwara State. Hence, the respondents for this study will be obtained from and among nurses of Specialist Hospital, Offa, Kwara State.

1.8 Limitation of the Study

In the course of carrying out this study, the researcher experienced some constraints, which included time constraints, financial constraints, language barriers, and the attitude of the respondents. However, the researcher were able to manage these just to ensure the success of this study.

1.9 Definition of Terms

Nurse:

A person who cares for the sick or infirm. specifically : a licensed health-care professional who practices independently or is supervised by a physician, surgeon, or dentist and who is skilled in promoting and maintaining health compare licensed practical nurse, registered nurse.

Evidence-Based Practice:

Evidence-based practice is the idea that occupational practices ought to be based on scientific evidence. While seemingly obviously desirable, the proposal has been controversial, with some arguing that results may not specialize to individuals as well as traditional practices.

Knowledge:

According to the Oxford English Dictionary (2012), knowledge is defined as (i) expertise, and skills acquired by a person through experiences or education

1.10 Organization of the Study

This research work is organized in five chapters, for easy understanding, as follows.

Chapter one is concern with the introduction, which consist of the (overview, of the study), historical background, statement of problem, objectives of the study, research hypotheses, significance of the study, scope and limitation of the study, definition of terms and historical background of the study.
Chapter two highlights the theoretical framework on which the study is based, thus the review of related literature.
Chapter three deals on the research design and methodology adopted in the study.
Chapter four concentrate on the data collection and analysis and presentation of finding.
Chapter five gives summary, conclusion, and recommendations made of the study.

Chapter Five

Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations:

5.1 Introduction

This chapter summarizes the findings on the knowledge and practice of evidence based practice among nurses using nurses in Offa Specialist Hospital, Ilorin as case study. The chapter consists of summary of the study, conclusions, and recommendations.

5.2 Summary of the Study

In this study, our focus was on the knowledge and practice of evidence based practice among nurses using nurses in Offa Specialist Hospital, Ilorin as case study. The study is was specifically focused on assessing the knowledge level of professional nurses of Offa Specialist Hospital, assessing the level of utilization of evidence-based nursing practice in the care of patient by nurses at Offa Specialist Hospital, Kwara State, determining the extent at which their knowledge about evidence-based nursing practice has influence the management of clients in the hospital, identifying the factors affecting the utilization of evidence-based nursing practice in the care of patient by the nurses and finding out factors that can enhance effective utilization of evidence-based nursing practice in the care of patient.

The study adopted the survey research design and randomly enrolled participants in the study. A total of 110 responses were validated from the enrolled participants where all respondent are nurses in Offa Specialist Hospital, Ilorin.

5.3 Conclusions

The result of findings in this study revealed that nurses in Offa Specialist Hospital, Ilorin have high knowledge of evidence-based nursing practice, their utilization of evidence-based nursing was low, there were various barriers hindering utilization of evidence-based nursing practice in Offa Specialist Hospital. However, it was discovered that evidence-based nursing practice can be effectively utilized by nurses in the Hospital. It was observed from the result of findings that there is no significant relationship between nurses’ knowledge and practice of evidence-based nursing practice. There is no significant relationship between professional qualification of nurses and utilization of evidence based nursing practice. On the other hand, there is significant relationship between nurses’ attitude and utilization of evidence-based nursing practice. Efforts by the management to ensure effective utilization of evidence-based nursing practice cannot be over emphasized.

5.4 Recommendations

Based on the findings in this study, the following recommendations are made:

Nurses should endeavour to put their knowledge of evidence-based nursing practice to use .
Nurses should be educated more on the use and importance of evidence-based nursing practice
Hospital management should make concerted effort to eliminate barriers hindering utilization of evidence- based nursing practice among nurses.
Hospital management should organized seminars for nurses on utilization of evidence-based nursing from time to time.