Assessment of Evidence Based Practice (EBP) among graduate Radiographers

Abstract

Evidence-based practice (EBP) offers the integration of the best research evidence with clinical knowledge and expertise and patient values. EBP is considered to be an essential component of clinical service delivery in health care. The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice about EBP among graduate radiographers. A descriptive cross sectional study was carried out using an interviewer administered questionnaire among all (20) graduate radiographers who practice at National Hospital Sri Lanka. Data regarding demography, current EBP activity, perceived EBP skills, recognition of EBP terminology and search strategies, beliefs and attitudes to EBP and local barriers to EBP were obtained. Most survey items included four and five response options (4 and 5-point Likert scales). All data analyses were done using SPSS statistical software version 14.0 (SPSS Inc, Chicago, USA). P-value<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. A response rate of 100% was obtained. 60% of them were females. 60% of them mentioned that EBP is new to them, 65% of participants were reading research literature related to clinical practice on a monthly basis. 50% of participants rated their knowledge and skills in EBP as "fair". 65% of participants agreed with the statement regarding the value of EBP, and that such an approach improves patient care. 75% of them reported that "insufficient time" was the primary barrier to the application of EBP in their clinical practice. Most of them (92%) did not understand the terms "systematic review" and "validity". 75% of them were able to understand the basic terms used in research methodology. Female radiographers were able to score well compare with males (P=0.032). Also, we found that radiographers' knowledge about EBP did not show any significant difference with their experience (P=0.112). Knowledge, attitude and practice about EBP among graduate radiographers were poor. Hence, this is time to introduce the term "Evidence-Based Radiography" in Sri Lanka. Sample was inadequate because of less number of graduate radiographers are practising in Sri Lanka. Further research is needed to compare these results with other radiographers.