EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE (EBP) AWARENESS AND UTILIZATION AMONG NURSES: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) is a fundamental approach in modern nursing that integrates clinical expertise, patient preferences, and the best available research to improve healthcare outcomes. This study examines the awareness, knowledge, and implementation of EBP among nurses in Pakistan, identifying challenges and opportunities for its adoption. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 239 nurses using a structured questionnaire to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and barriers to EBP. The results revealed significant gaps in EBP comprehension, with only 18.4% of participants accurately defining EBP and fewer than 30% demonstrating proficiency in key areas such as clinical question formulation and literature review. Interestingly, higher education alone did not correlate with better EBP knowledge, whereas practical experience significantly influenced understanding and application.  Several barriers to EBP adoption were identified, including limited access to research materials, inadequate mentorship, and institutional constraints. The findings highlight the need for integrating EBP training into nursing curricula, implementing structured mentorship programs, and enacting policy reforms to foster an evidence-based culture in healthcare.  This study underscores the importance of structured education, professional training, and policy initiatives to bridge the knowledge-practice gap. Strengthening EBP adoption will enhance patient care quality, improve healthcare efficiency, and reduce costs. Future research should explore targeted interventions and institutional support mechanisms to empower nurses in effectively implementing EBP, ultimately ensuring safer and higher-quality patient care.