Nurses not prepared to use research findings

AORN Journal,  Oct, 2005  

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Many US RNs are not prepared to engage in evidence-based practice, a systematic research process that uses the best evidence currently available for clinical decision-making in order to provide the most consistent and best possible care for patients, according to an Aug 9, 2005, news release from the American Journal of Nursing. Researchers conducted a study based on a descriptive, exploratory survey that examined US RNs' perceptions of information resources available to them and their skirts in using these resources. Of 1,097 respondents, 987 were RNs in administration, education, or clinical practice roles, and 760 worked in clinical settings.

Respondents acknowledged that they frequently need information for practice, but many reported that they feet more confident asking colleagues and peers or searching the Internet than in using more credible bibliographic databases, such as PubMed or CINAHL, to find specific information. Barriers to using and implementing evidence-based practice include gaps in computer Literacy knowledge and skills, Limited access to quality information resources, and negative attitudes toward research. Survey results include the following.

* Eighty-three percent of respondents consider themselves to be at [east somewhat successful when searching the Internet, but only 19% and 36% are confident in their abilities to search CINAHL or MEDLINE, respectively.

* Although 98% of nurses had access to the Internet, only 18% had access to the CINAHL database and 40% had access to MEDLINE.

* Many respondents did not understand the value of research in practice and stated that the importance of research and its contribution to patient care is not being communicated in education or practice.

* Many RNs have difficulty understanding research articles and believe that they are not adequately prepared to appraise research and interpret its usefulness for clinical decision-making.

Study Shows Nurses Unable to Engage in Research Practices Essential for Positive Patient Outcomes (news release, New York: American Journal of Nursing, Aug 9, 2005) http://www.prnewswire.corn (accessed 10 Aug 2005).

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