| The purpose of this study was to assess the Information Literacy of RNs and APRNs in a predominantly rural, southern U.S. state related to clinical information needed to facilitate Evidence-Based Practice. Information Literacy included information-seeking strategies, particularly electronic database searching, information needs, access, and resources. The theoretical framework utilized Rogers's Diffusion of Innovation Theory with Moore's revised Technology Adoption Life Cycle, and the process framework was a needs assessment.; The study was one of a pair of descriptive, exploratory needs assessments that employed a non-experimental, cross-sectional design to identify readiness for Evidence-Based Practice among nurses state-wide. This study examined RNs and APRNs; the parallel study examined nursing faculty and students.; Two random samples consisting of 550 RNs and 200 APRNs were drawn from the list of all RNs and APRNs licensed to practice and living within the state. 181 RN and 80 APRN questionnaires were returned, representing a return rate of 32.9% and 34.8% respectively.; Research variables included (a) awareness of the need for information, (b) identification of information needed for research-based practice, (c) ability and availability to search electronically for clinical information, (d) application of electronic information-seeking processes, (e) information resources used, and (f) purpose for which retrieved information used.; A researcher-developed instrument was distributed, using Dillman's Total Design Method for mail questionnaires. Data from 157 RNs and 66 APRNs were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, range, frequencies, percentages, and Chi square.; Highlights from the study include: 40% APRNs and 52.9% RNs read nursing research less than once a month. No nurses subscribed to a nursing research journal; several subscribe to professional journals that include research. More APRNs (75%) used electronic database searching than RNs (58%). The state lacks adequate computer technology. 52.6% RNs and 53% APRNs had Internet access at home; 48.3% RNs, 53.3% APRNs had it in their practice. 66.9% RNs and 46.6% APRNs did not use CINAHL; 52.7% RNs, 24.2% APRNs did not use Medline. 11.5% RNs, 31.3% APRNs categorized their Medline searches as “successful.” 87.5% RNs, 52.4 APRNs consulted a librarian less than four times annually. |
