Factors related to evidence-based practice among health professionals: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective: To identify factors associated with evidence-based practice (EBP) among health professionals. Method: This was an observational, cross-sectional study conducted in a large, high-complexity private institution located in the cities of São Paulo and Brasília, Brazil. A total of 305 health professionals participated. Data were collected using an electronic questionnaire that included sociodemographic and professional variables, along with the Prática Baseada em Evidências nas Ciências da Saúde (HS-EBP) questionnaire. The analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. The Kruskal–Wallis test was used to assess the association between job satisfaction and the mean scores of the instrument’s dimensions. Statistical significance was set at 5%. Results: The overall HS-EBP mean score was high, with the highest scores observed in the Beliefs–Attitudes dimension, followed by Practice and Barriers–Facilitators. A significant association was found between job satisfaction and the Practice and Barriers–Facilitators dimensions, as well as the overall instrument mean. Higher questionnaire scores were associated with more frequent reading of scientific articles and greater participation in training activities. Conclusion: Despite favorable attitudes toward EBP, its operationalization still faces challenges. This scenario highlights the need for institutional strategies that integrate organizational support and continuing education to improve the quality of care.