Korean Nursing Students' Acquisition of Evidence-Based Practice and Critical Thinking Skills

Abstract

Background: Evidence-based practice (EBP) is essential for enhancing nurses' quality of care. We identified Korean nursing students' practices, attitudes, and knowledge concerning EBP, as well as their critical thinking disposition (CTD). Method: The EBP Questionnaire (EBPQ) was administered to a convenience sample of 266 nursing students recruited from four nursing schools in Seoul and its metropolitan area. Results: Average EBPQ and CTD total scores were 4.69 +/- 0.64 and 3.56 +/- 0.32, respectively. Students who were ages >= 23 years, male, and satisfied with their major demonstrated higher EBPQ and CTD scores. EBPQ scores were significantly correlated with CTD scores (r = .459, p < .01), and CTD was an explanatory factor of EBP (adjusted R-2 = 0.200). Conclusion: It is necessary to develop comprehensive teaching strategies to help nursing students improve their CTD and information utilization skills, as well as integrate EBP in undergraduate programs to enhance nurses' EBP abilities.