2026/01/01 by Azza Abd Elrazek Baraka, Azza Awad Algendy, Hend Mohamed Elazazy +3
Decision Sciences · Health Professions · #Health Policy Implementation Science #Health Sciences Research and Education #Meta-analysis and systematic reviews
paper · doi:10.1155/nuf/6325705
crossref issued 2026/01/01 · crossref published 2026/01/01 · crossref published-print 2026/01/01 · openalex publication_date 2026/01/01 · crossref published-online 2026/07/24 · crossref created 2026/07/25 · crossref deposited 2026/07/25 · crossref indexed 2026/07/25 · openalex created_date 2026/07/26 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/26
Background Evidence‐based practice (EBP) competency is a critical outcome in nursing education. Assessing nursing graduates’ knowledge, attitudes, and skills regarding EBP is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of current educational approaches. Aim To identify predictors of EBP competency among nursing graduates. Methods A descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted with all nursing graduates and interns from King Abdul‐Aziz Hospital, Al‐Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, during the 2023–2024 academic year. Data were collected between March and April 2024 using a self‐report questionnaire, including sociodemographic and research experience data, and the Evidence‐Based Practice Competency Questionnaire (EBP‐COQ). The study adheres to the STROBE checklist. Results A total of 190 participants responded. Nurses demonstrated a high positive attitude toward EBP (mean 30.25 ± 4.10/39), moderate knowledge (mean 12.52 ± 1.92/18), and moderate skills (mean 12.52 ± 1.42/17). Nearly half (48.4%) had high overall EBP competency (> 75%), while 11.1% had low competency (≤ 60%). Educational level, age, GPA, and attendance at EBP workshops were significant predictors of EBP competency ( p < 0.05). Conclusion Attitude toward EBP was the strongest domain, followed by knowledge and skills. Approximately half of the participants showed moderate‐to‐low overall EBP competency. Integrating EBP workshops, curriculum‐based practical activities, and mentorship programs may enhance competency among nursing graduates.