Evidence from research and outcomes management projects strongly supports the use of evidence-based practice (EBP) in improving quality of health care and patient outcomes as well as reducing hospital costs. In addition, published anecdotal reports have indicated that clinicians who use an evidence-based approach to care and practice in cultures that support EBP feel more empowered and satisfied in their roles. However, research is lacking that has specifically examined the relationships among beliefs about and implementation of EBP by hospital staff, organizational culture for EBP, group cohesion and job satisfaction. Therefore, the purpose of this descriptive correlational study was to examine the relationships among these variables in 58 health professionals, prior to their participation in a 12-month EBP mentorship program as part of implementing the Advancing Research and Clinical practice through close Collaboration (ARCC) Model in a community hospital system. Findings indicated that participants' EBP beliefs were significantly correlated with perceived organizational culture for EBP, the extent to which they implemented EBP, group cohesion, and job satisfaction. Organizational culture for EBP was significantly and positively related to EBP beliefs and EBP implementation. Findings support the need for hospitals to establish cultures that support EBP and to implement strategies to strengthen individuals' cognitive beliefs about the value of EBP and their ability to implement it for the ultimate purpose of improving quality of care and enhancing job satisfaction.
