Perceptions of Rural Magnet Nurses' Comfort and Confidence With Evidence-Based Practice

Background: Evidence-based practice (EBP) is essential for improving outcomes for patients and is an expected competency of nurses. However, current practice finds varying levels of comfort and confidence among nurses regarding EBP implementation. Method: A descriptive study using an online survey was conducted to assess the perceptions of nurses at a rural midwestern Magnet (R) hospital on their comfort and confidence regarding EBP and compare the results to the nurses' level of education and years of experience. Results: Although nurses agreed that EBP is important for patient care, nurses with a baccalaureate degree or higher reported increased comfort and confidence with EBP implementation. However, nurses with more years of experience, regardless of education level, reported increased comfort and confidence with EBP, although that finding did not reach significance levels. Conclusion: Creating a culture of EBP is the responsibility of every organization. Administrators and educators must continue to assess the comfort and confidence levels of nurses who work directly at the bedside and provide continuing education and hands-on opportunities to increase nurses' comfort and confidence with implementing EBP.