An Integrative Review of Interventions for Enhancing Leadership in the Implementation of Evidence-Based Nursing

Background: The most common barriers to evidence-based nursing (EBN) are related to nurse leadership and to organizational characteristics. Scientific evidence is needed regarding interventions that support nurse leadership.

Aims: The aim was to gather, assess, and synthesize the current empirical evidence regarding interventions for enhancing nursing leadership in EBN implementation.

Methods: We conducted an integrative review of interventions that enhance the roles of nurse leaders in EBN implementation using reporting guidance according to the PRISMA statement.

Results: The search identified five studies, which described two intervention types: interventions improving nurse leaders' capabilities for EBN implementation and supporting the activities for EBN implementing. The interventions focused on strategic, teamwork, and individual levels. All interventions produced positive outcomes on primary outcomes, however all not statistically significant.

Linking evidence to action: The studies mainly had descriptive designs and short follow-up times, so it was not possible to propose evidence-based recommendations for effective interventions. The certainty of evidence was very low due to the study designs and the risk of bias. Structured clinical education might promote new innovations in evidence-based leadership in nursing. Conclusions about the impact of the interventions must be drawn with caution. They might be useful for promoting the abilities of nurse leaders to implement EBN, but further studies are needed to provide more reliable recommendations.