Evidence-based research and practice: attitudes of reproduction nurses, counsellors and doctors

Caroline A. Smith, Meaghan E. Coyle, Sheryl de Lacey, Neil P. Johnson

The importance of providing evidence-based health care in reproduction medicine has resulted in a wealth of research which has largely focused on patient outcomes. Comparatively little is known about the knowledge and attitudes of health professionals who are often required to contribute to research. This study sought to examine the knowledge and attitudes to research of reproductive medicine health professionals and to explore the motivators and barriers to participating in research. A cross-sectional online survey was developed from previous research. The survey was distributed to members of the Fertility Society of Australia between November 2012 and February 2013. Ninety-six health professionals consented to participate and completed the questionnaire. The majority acknowledged the importance of research in informing practice and improving patient outcomes. While many clinicians expressed an interest in participating in research, time and resources were acknowledged as barriers that hindered their involvement. Collaborations with academics may offer a pathway to building the evidence to improve patient care. There is increasing focus on improving patient outcomes from reproductive treatment by using research to inform clinical practice. However little is known about the views of reproductive nurses, counsellors and doctors about the role of research in their day to day clinical work. This study examined the knowledge and attitudes to research of reproductive medicine health professionals, and explored factors that may motivate or create barriers to their involvement in research. We conducted a survey in Australia between November 2012 and February 2013. Ninety-six health professionals consented to participate and completed the questionnaire. The majority indicated the importance of research influencing their clinical practice, and the role research has with improving patient outcomes. Many clinicians indicated they would like to participate in research, however time and resources were acknowledged as barriers which stopped their involvement.