Introduction: To bridge manifold gaps between nursing theory and practice, the work of nurses should be evidence-based. The implementation of evidence-based practice is the cornerstone of improving the quality of nursing care. The successful implementation of evidence-based practice requires nurses to be empowered with the skills to estimate the evidence and apply it to the patient critically. In doing this, they should be supported by their knowledge of the reflective practice. Purpose: The purpose of this master thesis is to identify the role of reflective practice in the implementation of evidence-based practice. Methods: Preceded by a descriptive literature review, a quantitative non-experimental research method was used to collect data. An online survey was conducted using a combination of two previously validated questionnaires – Evidence Based Practice Implementation scale and Reflective Practice Questionnaire to determine the use of four aspects of reflective practice and job satisfaction. A non-random and convenience sample was used to conduct the survey. 202 registered nurses participated in the survey. Descriptive statistics and parametric and non-parametric statistical tests were used to test the hypotheses. The threshold for statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Nurses' work is most often based on nationally produced guidelines. The most frequently used aspects of reflective practice are a reflection with others and self-assessment. The implementation of evidence-based practice is positively and moderately associated with all aspects of reflective practice (p < 0,05). More frequent implementation of evidence-based practice is associated with higher level of education (F = 15,99; p < 0,05), higher involvement in research (F = 41,83; p > 0,05), and familiarity with evidence-based practice models (t = 5,66; p < 0,05). Nurses who more often implement evidence-based practice and use reflective practice also have higher job satisfaction (F = 18,91; p < 0,05; F = 24,71; p < 0,05). Discussion and conclusion: Nurses' self-assessment showed that successful implementation of evidence-based practice and higher use of reflective practice requires knowledge and coordination of all factors associated with both concepts. Furthermore, the establishment of strategies and actions at national and international levels should be supported which will in turn promote nursing education and create an organizational climate that gives importance to the quality application of both concepts in practice.
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