Developing the role of head nurses in promoting evidence-based practices among hospital staff nurses: An integrative literature review

Methodology
By Nathalie Larochelle, Line Beaudet
English

Introduction: the application of evidence-based practice (EBP) by nurses is uneven and inconsistent. Background: characteristics related to head nurses and organizations influence their interventions, to the detriment of EBP. Objectives: this integrative literature review, informed by the knowledge-to-action (KTA) framework developed by Straus, Tetroe, and Graham sought to identify the barriers and facilitators encountered by head nurses when implementing EBP among hospital staff nurses. It also sought to highlight evidence interventions that promote lasting implementation of EBP. Method: an electronic search of the empirical literature was conducted using three databases. Of the 532 articles obtained, sixteen were retained and analyzed. Results: various interventions could be delivered by head nurses and organizations, centered on each step of the KTA process proposed by Straus, Tetroe and Graham. Staff nurses would also benefit from interventions targeting communication, role modeling, and the provision of support at all times. Conclusion: head nurses and organizations could foster EBP among staff nurses by applying promising interventions that take account of the local context and implementation barriers and facilitators.

Keywords

  • head nurse
  • professional role
  • acute care hospital
  • evidence-based practice
  • integrative review
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