FACTORS INFLUENCING EVIDENCE-BASED WOUND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AMONG NURSES IN UNIVERSITY OF BENIN TEACHING HOSPITAL

Abstract

Wound management remains a vital component of nursing care, requiring evidence-based decision-making to promote optimal wound healing and prevent complications. This study assessed the factors influencing evidence-based wound management practices among nurses in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Edo State. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, and data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire from 155 nurses across various departments including surgical, medical, accident and emergency, and outpatient units. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and SPSS version 29. The findings revealed that 49.0% of respondents correctly identified that evidence-based practice involves integrating research findings with clinical expertise and patient preferences, while 88.4% agreed that proper wound assessment should include evaluation of size, depth, colour, exudate, and odour. Attitudinal findings showed that 73.5% of nurses were motivated to update their wound care knowledge regularly, and 71.0% expressed willingness to change their practice when new evidence is available. However, 88.4% felt that evidence-based practice increases workload, and 30.3% still preferred traditional methods over modern wound care approaches. Institutional and resource-based barriers were evident: 73.5% cited lack of access to updated wound care guidelines, 76.8% identified poor institutional support, and 56.1% reported that inadequate supply of dressing materials limits evidence-based wound care. The study concludes that while nurses in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital demonstrate good knowledge and positive attitudes toward evidence-based wound management, implementation is hampered by systemic and institutional constraints. It is therefore recommended that hospital management strengthen continuous professional development programs, ensure the availability of wound care materials, and promote supportive policies to sustain evidence-based nursing practice. Keywords: Attitude, Evidence-Based Practice, Knowledge, Wound Management.

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urn:uuid:aa5f769f-e8ec-4e81-9a66-e8e759917e88