Background of the Study
Evidence-based practice (EBP) is an essential component of modern healthcare, guiding clinical decision-making and improving patient outcomes through the integration of the best available research, clinical expertise, and patient preferences (Robinson et al., 2023). For nursing students, understanding and applying EBP is crucial for their development as future healthcare providers capable of delivering high-quality care. EBP not only supports the delivery of effective treatments but also enhances the professional growth of nurses by encouraging critical thinking and the application of scientific knowledge in clinical settings (Benner et al., 2024).
Despite its significance, the adoption of EBP in many healthcare settings, especially in developing countries, remains suboptimal. A primary factor contributing to this is the lack of sufficient knowledge and positive attitudes towards EBP among nursing students. While nursing curricula often incorporate EBP principles, studies have shown that students' readiness and attitudes toward implementing evidence-based practices in clinical environments can vary widely (Harrison et al., 2023).
Federal Teaching Hospital in Lokoja, a prominent healthcare facility in Nigeria, provides a context where nursing students undergo practical training in clinical environments. This study seeks to assess the level of knowledge and the attitudes of nursing students towards EBP in this hospital, aiming to identify potential gaps and opportunities for improving EBP education and practice within the institution. Understanding the knowledge base and attitudes of nursing students is critical to developing strategies for improving EBP integration in both academic and clinical settings.
Statement of the Problem
Although the importance of evidence-based practice is well recognized, there is a gap in understanding the knowledge and attitudes of nursing students towards EBP in Nigeria. At Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja, it is unclear whether nursing students possess sufficient knowledge of EBP or whether they have positive attitudes towards its implementation in clinical settings. Without an assessment of these factors, it is challenging to improve the integration of EBP in the nursing curriculum and in practice. The lack of clarity on nursing students' attitudes may hinder efforts to cultivate a culture of EBP within the hospital, thereby affecting the quality of patient care.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of knowledge of evidence-based practice among nursing students at Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja.
2. To determine the attitudes of nursing students towards the implementation of evidence-based practice in clinical settings.
3. To identify the factors influencing the knowledge and attitudes of nursing students towards evidence-based practice.
Research Questions
1. What is the level of knowledge of evidence-based practice among nursing students at Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja?
2. What are the attitudes of nursing students towards the implementation of evidence-based practice in clinical settings?
3. What factors influence the knowledge and attitudes of nursing students towards evidence-based practice?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nursing students at Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja have a moderate level of knowledge regarding evidence-based practice.
2. Nursing students at Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja have a positive attitude towards the implementation of evidence-based practice in clinical settings.
3. Factors such as curriculum, clinical exposure, and faculty guidance significantly influence the knowledge and attitudes of nursing students towards evidence-based practice.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on nursing students at Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, Nigeria. It will explore students' knowledge and attitudes towards evidence-based practice through surveys and interviews. The study will be limited by the sample size and the potential for response bias, as it depends on self-reported data from students. Additionally, the scope is limited to one institution, so the findings may not be applicable to all nursing schools or hospitals in Nigeria.
Definitions of Terms
• Evidence-Based Practice (EBP): The integration of the best research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient preferences to guide healthcare decisions and improve outcomes.
• Nursing Students: Individuals currently enrolled in a nursing program, undergoing practical training at Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja.
• Attitudes: The feelings, beliefs, and behaviors of individuals towards evidence-based practice, influencing their willingness to implement it in clinical practice.
• Knowledge: The understanding and awareness of nursing students regarding evidence-based practices, including its principles and application.
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