PERCEPTIONS AND BARRIERS REGARDING IMPLEMENTATION OF EBP AMONG NURSES WORKING IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL PESHAWAR KP

Abstract

Background: Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) is fundamental to improving the quality of healthcare by integrating clinical expertise, patient values, and the best available research evidence. However, barriers exist in its widespread implementation, included limited access to research materials, insufficient time, lack of knowledge and skills, and inadequate support from healthcare administrators hinder the seamless integration of research findings into clinical decision-making.

Aim/Objective: This study aims to explore the relationship between nurses' challenges, confidence, motivation, of the successful implementation of Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) in tertiary care hospital Hayatabad medical complex Peshawar KP Pakistan.

Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study design was employed, targeting 50 nurses selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire assessing demographics, formal training in EBP, resources, organizational support, and perceptions of EBP challenges.

Results: The sample included nurses of age between 22 to 50 years, with a gender distribution of 48% male and 52% female. A significant proportion (68%) of the nurses had received formal training in EBP. Regarding challenges, 58% of nurses reported that resources for EBP implementation were adequate, while 42% disagreed. Over half (56%) of the respondents reported receiving consistent support from management. However, several barriers to EBP implementation were identified, including insufficient access to research articles (36%), limited time for research (32%), and difficulty understanding statistical analyses (34%). Additionally, 50% of nurses felt they lacked the authority to alter patient care practices, and 64% felt the study findings were not applicable to their practice. Notably, 48% of nurses cited physician non-collaboration as a significant barrier to EBP adoption.

Conclusion: This study underscores the critical challenges nurses face in implementing EBP, including inadequate resources, lack of formal training, and insufficient organizational support. To improve EBP integration, hospitals should focus on providing adequate resources, enhancing training programs, fostering inter-professional collaboration, and promoting a supportive organizational culture that encourages evidence-based care. Addressing these issues is vital for improving patient outcomes and enhancing the overall effectiveness of nursing practice in public hospitals.