Factors associated with practicing evidence-based medicine among medical interns in Amhara regional state teaching hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia, 2020

Abstract

Background Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is an essential component of modern medical practice and crucial for patient safety and high-quality healthcare services. The purpose of this study is to assess the factors associated with practicing EBM among medical interns in Amhara regional state teaching hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods An institution based cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to April, 2020. Simple random sampling with proportional allocation was used. A total of 403 medical interns were included in the study. The data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Data were coded and entered in to Epi info 8.1 then exported to and analyzed by using SPSS 20.1. Multivariable logistic regression analysis method was used to identify the factors associated with the practice of EBM. Results From the total of 403 medical interns, 48.4% had good practices towards EBM. EBM knowledge, attitude towards EBM, ability to critically appraise evidence and having sufficient time to search for evidence were the factors significantly associated with EBM practice. Conclusion Medical interns have limited practice of integrating scientific evidence in to clinical practice. There is a need to setup EBM journal club, which helps to increase awareness and use of evidence, as well as assist medical interns and other clinical staffs to ensure the correct application of EBM in to clinical practice.