Examining the association between evidence‐based practice and the nurse‐patient therapeutic relationship in mental health units: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aims To examine the relationship between the dimensions of evidence‐based practice and the therapeutic relationship and to predict the quality of the therapeutic relationship from these dimensions among nurses working in mental health units. Design A cross‐sectional design. Methods Data were collected between February–April 2018 via an online form completed by nurses working at 18 mental health units. Multiple linear regressions were used to examine the relationship between the dimensions of evidence‐based practice and therapeutic relationship. Questionnaires were completed by 198 nurses. Results Higher levels of evidence‐based practice were a significant predictor of a higher‐quality therapeutic relationship (β: 2.276; 95% CI: 1.30–3.25). The evidence‐based practice factor which most influenced an improved therapeutic relationship was the nurses’ attitude (β: 2.047; 95% CI: 0.88–3.21). The therapeutic relationship dimension which was most conditioned by evidence‐based practice dimensions was agreement on tasks, which was most favourable with a better attitude (β: 0.625; 95% CI: 0.09–1.16) and greater knowledge and skills for evidence‐based practice (β: 0.500; 95% CI: 0.08–0.93). Conclusion In mental health settings, the therapeutic nurse–patient relationship is positively enhanced by evidenced‐based practice and the nurse's level of experience, with a great influence on shared decision‐making. Impact This research sought to examine the relationship between the evidence‐based practice and the therapeutic relationship in mental health nursing. This study demonstrates that an improved attitude and knowledge of evidence‐based practices of mental health nurses increases shared decision‐making with patients, which is a basic requirement for person‐centred care. Because the therapeutic relationship is considered the backbone of nursing practice in mental health units, this research will have an impact on both mental health nurses and mental health unit managers.

Exploring the therapeutic relationship through the reflective practice of nurses in acute mental health units: A qualitative study

“…These findings offer knowledge about relational competence, a competency of professional nursing that is highly relevant in mental health (D'Antonio et al, 2014 ). This competence is directly linked to participation in practice and incorporates not only knowledge and skills, but also attitudes and professionalism that involve applying evidence and learning to practice (Casey et al, 2017 ; Moreno‐Poyato, Casanova‐Garrigos, et al, 2021 ). Specifically, the attitudinal component highlighted in the results and its importance in the context of the nurse–patient therapeutic relationship has been described from a theoretical perspective by authors such as Peplau or Orlando (Forchuk, 1991 ), Travelbee ( 1971 ) and Watson (Turkel et al, 2018 ).…”

Commitment, perception and evidence‐based practice training in Spanish nursing students: A multicentre cross‐sectional study

“…In this regard, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) defined EBP as a 'problem solving approach to clinical decision making that incorporates a search for the best and latest evidence, clinical expertise and assessment and patient preference values within a context of caring', considering the patient as a whole (biopsychosocial being) (ICN, 2012). Despite all these efforts, recognition and recommendations from international organisations, the reality seems to be very different since neither most healthcare professionals nor organisations seem eager to follow an EBP culture in their daily work (Correa et al, 2020;Moreno-Poyato et al, 2020); in this sense, we need to take into account that clinical practice is often associated to 'what we usually do' instead of 'what we have to do'. R1 The best available evidence is often not used in patient care, and in other cases, there are no decision-making or critical attitude skills implied.…”

“…Despite all these efforts, recognition and recommendations from international organisations, the reality seems to be very different since neither most healthcare professionals nor organisations seem eager to follow an EBP culture in their daily work (Correa et al, 2020 ; Moreno‐Poyato et al, 2020 ); in this sense, we need to take into account that clinical practice is often associated to ‘what we usually do’ instead of ‘what we have to do’. R1 The best available evidence is often not used in patient care, and in other cases, there are no decision‐making or critical attitude skills implied.…”

The Indonesian Version of Evidence-Based Practice Questionnaire (EBPQ): An Evaluation of Reliability

“…Thus, it has been demonstrated to be beneficial in the healthcare setting. The use of EBP also contributes to improved patient outcomes (Moreno-Poyato, Casanova-Garrigos, Roldán-Merino, Rodríguez-Nogueira, & group, 2020), to reduce cost (Staffileno, Wideman, & Carlson, 2013), lessen the know-do gap (Rushmer, Ward, Nguyen, & Kuchenmüller, 2019), and help decision-making (Rushmer et al, 2019;World Health Organization, 2015). In addition, it facilitates the development of clinical guidelines (Turner, 2009).…”