From knowledge management to evidence-based practice among nurses: a structural equation modeling study

Background Knowledge management can provide effective strategies for enhancing the evidence-based practice (EBP) of nurses. Accordingly, by establishing a knowledge management system in healthcare centers, the knowledge present in the organization can be provided to all staff. Therefore, this research aimed at examining the model predicted from the effect of knowledge management on EBP among nurses. Methods This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 250 nurses who were selected using a cluster random sampling method in Mashhad, Iran. Data were collected using a questionnaire, which comprised demographic information (4 items), knowledge management (23 items), and evidence-based practice (EBP) (30 items). Data analysis was performed using SPSS 25 and AMOS 24. Results Knowledge management showed a direct effect on forming EBP (beta = 0.229, p < 0.007, CI 95%=0.075-0.383). In addition, knowledge management through acquiring knowledge about EBP and generating attitudes about EBP showed an indirect effect on forming EBP (beta = 0.015, p < 0.001, CI 95%=0.004-0.036). Conclusions Today a massive volume of knowledge is generated in healthcare centers. Thus, the implementation of knowledge management systems in these centers would lead to the storage and organization of the knowledge of staff in healthcare centers. Given their important role in patient care, nurses can acquire positive knowledge and attitude about EBP through knowledge management and would be able to employ EBP instead of traditional practice when providing nursing care.