EXPLORING REGISTERED NURSES’ UNDERSTANDING OF EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE IN A SPECIALIST PSYCHIATRIC HEALTHCARE FACILITY IN SOUTH AFRICA
Date
2024-12
Authors
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Publisher
Stellenbosch University
Abstract
Background: Evidence-based practice (EBP) is recognised worldwide as an important component of patient care delivery that emphasises current evidence being used to underpin clinical practice and clinical decision making to deliver cost-effective quality nursing care. Nurses make clinical decisions in care constantly during nursing interactions; therefore, it is critical that they use the most up-to-date available evidence to support their clinical decision making. When implemented correctly, EBP is attributed to improving quality nursing care, better patient outcomes and reduced expenses. Research internationally and in South Africa shows that nurses often do not implement EBP in their nursing practice. This study aimed to elicit an understanding of how registered nurses (RN) working in a specialist psychiatric health facility understand the concept and application of EBP in their daily nursing care practice. Methods: The study was conducted at a state psychiatric healthcare facility specialist and tertiary referral hospital in the Northern Cape Province. A qualitative approach employing an exploratory, descriptive research design was implemented for this study. A non-probability purposeful sampling strategy was used, with the final sample comprised of 10 participants determined by data saturation. Data was analysed using a thematic analysis approach, which involves reading and re-reading data, coding, generating themes and interpreting findings. Findings: The findings of the study are held in four themes. The substance of these themes showed that most RNs understand and are familiar with the concept of EBP. While there is a positive attitude towards EBP, they do not readily apply EBP. The participants mentioned a lack of resources, an absence of EBP training and a lack of motivation and support from nursing management as factors that impede their EBP implementation. Conclusion: The study concludes that although RNs understand and support EBP, they do not apply it in their daily nursing care. Recommendations include providing education and training about EBP and its application, providing necessary resources, and encouraging nursing managers to support and cultivate EBP culture in the facility.