Evidence-based practice usage, knowledge and attitudes of healthcare professionals: a nationwide survey in the Maldives.

Abstract

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is considered an essential principle to arrive at and ensure high-quality healthcare. This study aimed to determine the current knowledge, attitude and awareness among doctors, nurses and allied healthcare workers in the Maldives regarding the principles of EBP and the barriers experienced when practising EBP. A nationwide, cross-sectional, semiquantitative, digital survey was conducted in 2023 among nurses, doctors and allied healthcare professionals currently working in any healthcare setting in the Maldives. The survey was based on the validated McColl and BARRIERS questionnaires. In addition, basic demographic characteristics of the participants were collected. Out of the more than 1000 healthcare professionals invited, 418 responded. The vast majority were female nurses. About half of the respondents worked in a tertiary hospital and had obtained a bachelor's degree in nursing. EBP was considered (very) useful and relevant for clinical practice, but the attitude towards and promotion of EBP was considered insufficient. Respondents preferred research utilisation through evidence-based guidelines. Slightly over half (52.1%) of the respondents had followed some course in literature searching or EBP. Only one in six respondents thought they had access to PubMed. The highest scoring barriers for EBP were related to organisational challenges; lack of knowledge, reluctance to change among healthcare professionals and management, and lack of time or high workload. Maldivian healthcare professionals welcome EBP but face organisational and practical challenges to implement this principle in clinical practice. A multidisciplinary team of EBP champions appears useful to promote EBP awareness and skills on a national scale.