Despite ongoing efforts to promote evidence-based practice (EBP) in nursing, several challenges continue to hinder its full adoption. One barrier is the limited knowledge and skills related to research appraisal and application among nursing staff. A critical appraisal of research articles assesses and discusses the validity of the study design and methods, effect size and precision, and applicability to one’s own clinical context (Tomotaki et al., 2023). Many nurses may have received minimal training in critically evaluating research studies or integrating evidence into clinical practice, leaving them uncertain about how to translate findings into patient care decisions. Addressing this barrier requires targeted education and professional development programs that focus on research literacy, critical thinking, and practical application of evidence. Mentorship from experienced EBP champions and workshops that provide hands-on experience with clinical guidelines and research tools can further support nurses in confidently using evidence to guide care. Another barrier is the time constraints faced by nurses in fast-paced clinical settings. Heavy workloads, staff shortages, and competing demands can make it challenging for nurses to search for, evaluate, and implement current evidence while still providing timely patient care. This barrier can be mitigated by integrating EBP into daily workflows through streamlined processes such as evidence summaries, clinical decision support systems, and standardized protocols that reduce the time needed to access and apply research. Additionally, allocating dedicated time for nurses to engage with EBP activities, supported by leadership, can foster a culture where evidence-based decision-making is feasible and prioritized alongside direct patient care. Positive leadership behaviors, such as building a supportive culture, leading by example, and providing EBP mentorship, are associated with improved EBP adoption among nurses (Sebire et al., 2025).
[Expert Solution]: Despite ongoing efforts to promote…
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