Factors influencing application of evidence based practice (EBP) among nurses working in Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH)-Nairobi.

Abstract

Evidence based practices (EBP) is application of care that is based on scientific evidence in order to obtain quality patient care. This concept was first introduced in the late 1970s' by Florence Nightingale who linked environment, disease occurrence and patient care. Modern Nursing care has evolved from this concept. However, documentary evidence on these evolutions and standardization of nursing practice was limited to the developing world. This study was designed to establish factors that influence application of EBP by nurses at Kenyatta National Hospital. The cross sectional study which was conducted over a four weeks period, 144 eligible nurses consented and enrolled in the study. Questionnaires was used to collect data on sociodemographics. evidence based practices and challenges encountered during the implementation process. Part two of the study involved an in-depth interview with nurse managers regarding knowledge, role and audit processes on evidence based practices. Quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 17, while fNVIVO 9 was used to analyze qualitative data. Association between independent and dependent variables was determined using Chi square (P<0.05). The result was presented in form of tables. pie charts and graphs. The result of the study has revealed that EBP application was influenced by personal factors like nurse education. nurses' attitudes towards research. and ability to critically review literature among other factors.

in conclusion the study recommends that KNH Management design and develop staff work el that takes into consideration factors, such as, patient to nurse ratio, balance between utine duties and time for research and training. There is need to develop a guideline on EBP application as most of the informants stated that their practices were based more on ward routine and hospital guideline than on research evidence.