Evidence-Based Practice in Radiography: Attitudes, Beliefs, Knowledge and Practices of Radiographers in Ghana

Abstract

Background: Evidence-based practice (EBP) has been identified as a standard in healthcare and the principles and practice of EBP are widely promoted and increasingly accepted by various professional bodies. Radiographers are therefore aware of the need to change attitudes and develop skills necessary for the integration of EBP into clinical practice. Aim: The main purpose of this study was to describe the attitudes, beliefs, knowledge and practices of radiographers with regard to evidence-based practice in Ghana. Methods: Nationwide survey done resulted in a response rate of 92.1% representing 199 participants. Participants completed a questionnaire designed to determine attitudes, beliefs, knowledge and practices, of their profession. Descriptive statistics was used to show the responses in tabular and graphical formats. Results: Most respondents (56.6 %) disagreed that strong evidence was lacking to support their practice. Only 39% of the respondents agreed that they had knowledge of medical search engines e.g. MEDLINE, Cochraine etc. 43% of the respondents reported using professional literature in clinical decision-making five or fewer times per month. The primary barrier to implementing EBP was lack of time. Conclusion: Radiographers showed positive attitudes and beliefs towards EBP. However, lack of resources, knowledge gap and skills was a challenge for its incorporation into practice. There is therefore the need for training of radiographers in Ghana into EBP.