Evidence-Based Practice and its Relationship to Quality Improvement: A Cross-Sectional Study among ‎Egyptian Nurses

Abstract

Background: Implementing Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) and Quality Improvement (QI) were recognized as the core competencies that should be held by all healthcare professionals, especially nurses, as front-line healthcare providers. Assessment of the current level of knowledge, skills, and attitude of nurses, regarding EBP and QI, is important for the design of strategies that could enhance the competence of nurses in such practices and, in turn, promote patient care quality. Objective: This study aimed to assess the attitudes, knowledge, and skills of nurses in Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) and Quality Improvement (QI), in addition, to studying the relationship between EBP and QI. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a convenient sample of nurses (N=300) who work in three Egyptian hospitals in Alexandria city, representing the university, governmental, and private health sectors. The EBP and QI questionnaires were used in addition to a demographic form for the studied nurses. Statistical analysis was carried out using ANOVAs, student t-test, Pearson correlation, and Regression analysis (R2). Results: Nurses displayed positive attitudes toward both EBP and QI. However, they perceived themselves to be lacking sufficient EBP knowledge and need to improve their QI skills. There was a strong positive correlation between EBP and QI with a predictive power of QI on EBP (r= 0.485, R2 = 0.273, p<0.001). Conclusion: Nurses need educational support for enhancing their attitude, knowledge, and skills related to EBP and QI. To prepare for educational programs, hospitals and nursing administrators should consider the characteristics of nurses, work schedules, and obstacles in the use of EBP. Hospital managers should also implement effective strategies to resolve the barriers and boost facilitators to increase the use of EBP among Egyptian nurses and promote QI. © 2020 Abou Hashish and Alsayed.