Evidence-based Practices in Respiratory Care: A Multinational Perspective

Background/objectives: Evidence-based practice (EBP) is crucial for optimizing patient care, improving clinical outcomes, and enhancing healthcare efficiency. However, knowledge gaps and poor implementation hinder its effectiveness in respiratory care. This study examines respiratory therapists’ (RTs’) knowledge and perspectives on EBP across the Middle East, India, and the Philippines. Methods: Approved by the institutional review board, the study was conducted through an online survey from October, 2022 to March, 2023. The survey yielded 560 valid responses, evaluating eight sources of professional information using a five-point Likert scale. Results: Most RTs (67.9%) recognized EBP’s role in improving patient care, though 56.6% were neutral about its impact on daily practice. Key barriers included difficulty formulating clinical questions (61.5%), time constraints (60.8%), and limited evidence access (55.4%). Online databases (64.5%) and web portals (58.4%) were primary information sources, with ProQuest (22.9%) and Cochrane Library (22.3%) being the most accessed. Younger RTs and those with higher qualifications engaged more in EBP, with significant associations found between EBP knowledge and age (p = 0.03), qualification (p = 0.006), and experience (p = 0.02). Conclusion: While RTs acknowledge the importance of EBP, many are unsure about its practical impact, highlighting the necessity for clear demonstrations of the relevance of research. Education remains the key element in involving younger and highly qualified RTs in EBP. Overcoming obstacles such as time limitations and limited access to evidence through focused interventions is crucial for promoting a culture of evidence-based care among RTs.