Self-efficacy-based training for research literature appraisal: a competency for evidence-based practice.

Evidence-based practice requires nurses to integrate research findings into patient care. The lack of skill and confidence in effective literature appraisal remains a barrier for many nurses. The author describes a self-efficacy-based pilot project designed to enhance nurses' skill and confidence, thus increasing their ability and willingness to critically evaluate research findings. After the intervention, nurses were better prepared to critically appraise the literature and, through enhanced readiness, were more inclined to make evidence-based practice a clinical reality. This approach may be beneficial to staff development educators to develop and enhance an evidence-based practice culture.