What are some of the obstacles or barriers to implementing EBP in nursing?

Evidence-Based Practice is the process through which healthcare professionals integrate their clinical expertise with patient values, preferences and best evidence available to make decisions. Implementing EBP can improve nursing outcomes and reduce mistakes, while increasing cost effectiveness. There are many barriers to its successful implementation, even though it has so many advantages.

A lack of knowledge and understanding amongst healthcare providers is a major barrier to EBP implementation in nursing. Nursing staff may not understand the EBP process or lack training in order to evaluate and access the latest research. The lack of knowledge can cause resistance to change and make it hard to integrate EBP in practice.

Lack of resources and time are also obstacles to EBP implementation in nursing. The nurses are usually very busy with heavy work loads and many other responsibilities. It can be hard to find time in this busy environment to evaluate and search for the most relevant evidence. Some healthcare organizations do not have the resources necessary to implement EBP, including access to databases or support by informatics experts.

Lack of support from the key players is another obstacle. Healthcare providers, administrators and patients can sometimes not recognize the importance of EBP. They may even resist its implementation. Lack of support can stem from a number of factors, including a belief in traditional methods, lack of confidence in evidence or lack of understanding about the benefits of EBP.

Despite the challenges that exist, EBP can be implemented in nursing. The healthcare organizations should provide training and education to their providers. They can also allocate sufficient resources for EBP and involve all stakeholders. By following these steps, health organizations can make sure that healthcare providers have the necessary knowledge and skill to give the best possible patient care.

Implementing EBP into nursing has many benefits for patients and health care providers. It is not without its obstacles, which include a limited understanding of the concept, lack of resources, lack of time, and lack of support from stakeholders. These challenges can be overcome by providing resources and engaging all stakeholders.

Reference:

Willems, S., Van den Berghe, L., & Wouters, J. (2016). A review of the literature. Journal of nursing education and practice, 6(7), 80–92. https://doi.org/10.5430/jnep.v6n7p80