Assessment of Evidence-Based Practice in a Tertiary Health Institution in Nigeria Using Laboratory Result
Medical laboratory services provide the largest body of empirical data that constitute the evidence in health care practice. It is the aim of this work to assess the usage of evidence –based practice by clinicians in our public health institution. One thousand (1000) structured questionnaires were distributed among clinicians working in one urban tertiary institution in Nigeria after given their consents to participate. The results showed that pediatrics department participated more with a percentage of 27.8% (270/970) while Community medicine showed least participation with 7.2%(70/970) .All respondents affirmed that the use of laboratory results prior to the treatment of patients is necessary. However, 75% of the respondents agreed that the formats of reporting laboratory results are standard and clear. The study further revealed that 46% of the doctors believed in having discussion with the laboratory staff over laboratory test results for better understanding as opposed to 54% who say it is not necessary. The study also showed that 71% of the doctors in the hospital usually do not request for the results of the ordered test when the patient has commenced treatment. Seventy percent (70%) of the doctors affirmed positively that the results are delivered on time. In conclusion, although clinicians agree on evidence –based practice, a greater number still do not practice it in true sense.