Evidence-based practice with knowledge, attitude and practice of ophthalmic nursing staffs: a cross-sectional study in south China

Background: This study aims to investigate the current status and influencing factors of evidence-based practice (EBP) with knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of ophthalmic nursing staffs in south China. Methods: Using a convenient sampling method, we selected 429 ophthalmic nursing staffs from 28 ophthalmology specialist hospitals or general hospitals in south China, and investigated their general information and implemented the evidence-based practice questionnaire (EBPQ). Results: The scores of EBP and KAP of ophthalmic nursing staffs in south China from high to low were as follows: practical attitude (4.85 +/- 1.07 points), practical behavior (4.42 +/- 1.14 points), practical knowledge and skills (4.30 +/- 0.65 points). The single factor analysis results showed that the first graduation degree, technical title, scientific research achievements, whether or not participate in EBP training, the frequency of reading literature at ordinary time, and whether or not participate in EBP project were the influencing factors of EBP level; the multi-factor analysis results showed that EBP attitude, EBP knowledge and skills, whether or not participate in EBP training were independent influencing factors of EBP. Conclusions: The ophthalmic nursing staffs in south China have a positive attitude towards EBP, however, their EBP knowledge, skills and behavioral capabilities need to be focused and improved. The ophthalmic nursing administrators should fully master the factors affecting the implementation of EBP, and take effective intervention measurement to improve the EBP abilities of ophthalmic nursing staffs, and promote the development of EBP in ophthalmology specialty.