AimTo investigate the levels of information literacy, evidence‐based nursing competence and innovative behaviour in specialist nurses, determine the impact of information literacy and evidence‐based nursing competence on the innovative behaviour of specialist nurses and to analyse the mediating role of evidence‐based nursing competence between information literacy and innovative behaviour among specialist nurses.DesignA multicenter cross‐sectional design.MethodsIn March 2024, a survey was conducted on 313 specialist nurses in four tertiary Grade A comprehensive hospitals in China. Data collection involved the utilization of general demographic questionnaire, the Information Literacy Questionnaire, the Evidence‐Based Nursing Competence Scale and the Nurse Innovation Behaviour Scale. The data were analysed using IBM SPSS26 and Amos28 software.ResultsSpecialist nurses scored above average in information literacy, evidence‐based nursing competence and innovative behaviour. Information literacy significantly positively correlated with innovative behaviour. Evidence‐based nursing competence also positively affected innovative behaviour and partially mediated the relationship between information literacy and innovative behaviour.ConclusionThis research indicated that specialist nurses exhibited above‐average levels of evidence‐based nursing competence, information literacy and innovative behaviour. Both information literacy and evidence‐based nursing competence positively impacted innovative behaviour, with evidence‐based nursing competence playing a significant mediating role between information literacy and innovative behaviour.ImpactThe findings suggest that nursing managers should focus on enhancing information literacy and evidence‐based nursing competence in specialist nurses. Improving these abilities will support the implementation of innovative practices and advance the nursing field.Reporting MethodThe research findings were presented in strict accordance with the STROBE statement.Patient or Public ContributionNot applicable.Contribute to the Wider Global Clinical CommunityIt provides reference guidance and theoretical basis for global nursing managers to formulate targeted interventions, so as to effectively enhance the innovative behaviour of specialist nurses.
