Assessing Evidence-Based Practice Knowledge: An Innovative Approach by a Nursing Research Council

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe the structure and processes implemented by nursing research councils to conduct a nurse-led research study at an urban community teaching hospital.BACKGROUND: We assessed nurses' knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward evidence-based practice (EBP) to inform development plans.METHODS: This is an institutional review board-approved single-site cross-sectional anonymous online survey (Evidence-Based Practice Questionnaire [EBPQ]) emailed to 850 participants. Data were analyzed using SPSS v25 (Armonk, New York).RESULTS: Initial response rate was 11%. Deployment of new strategies achieved an overall response rate of 57.5%. EBPQ subscale scores were highest for "attitude," followed by "knowledge/skills," and "practice." Lowest-scoring items included critical appraisal of literature, converting information needs into a question, time for new evidence, information technology, and research skills.CONCLUSIONS: Our EBPQ scores were consistent with prior findings. Our strategies provide a framework for other institutions in similar stages of implementing EBP and nurse-led research initiatives.