Self-Perceived Competence and Barriers to Evidence-Based Practice Implementation in Clinical Placement among Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) Nursing Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Evidence-based practice (EBP) is essential in nursing education, particularly in clinical placements, as it bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Objective: The study aimed to investigate the self-perceived competence of HCT nursing students regarding EBP and to explore the barriers they face in implementing EBP during clinical placements. Methods: A cross-sectional correlation design was employed, gathering data from 292 nursing students across three campuses in the UAE using a standardized questionnaire, including the Evidence-Based Practice Competence Questionnaire (EBP-COQ) and the Barriers to Research Utilization Questionnaire. Results: The study found that only 36.3% of students strongly agreed they could apply research findings in practice, while 70.2% viewed EBP as essential for quality patient care. However, 39% found EBP implementation time-consuming, and 39.3% struggled to understand research articles. Major obstacles to EBP implementation included inadequate facilities (73.5%), lack of access to relevant literature (73.2%), and feelings of isolation from knowledgeable colleagues (72.2%). A strong positive correlation was observed between the "knowledge" domain and both the "skills" and "attitude" domains. Conclusion: The study reveals that while nursing students possess positive attitudes and basic skills regarding EBP, substantial barriers impede their effective application of research findings in clinical settings. Addressing these barriers is essential for fostering an environment conducive to EBP, which ultimately enhances patient outcomes and promotes high-quality care in nursing practice.