Implementation of Evidence-Based Practice Among Respiratory Therapists in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Highlights: What are the main findings? This study offers the first national-level insights into respiratory therapists’ (RTs’) attitudes, knowledge, and perceived barriers toward evidence-based practice (EBP) in Saudi Arabia; Findings reveal a generally positive disposition toward EBP; however, notable gaps exist in formal training, understanding of technical concepts, and institutional support. What are the implications of the main findings? This study identifies key barriers to EBP integration, including limited access to resources, insufficient research skills, and an overreliance on personal experience; These findings underscore the urgent need for curriculum reform, targeted professional development, and policy initiatives to strengthen EBP in respiratory care. Background: Evidence-based practice (EBP) has become a foundational component of modern healthcare globally. In Saudi Arabia, the understanding and application of EBP by respiratory therapists (RTs) remains underexplored. This study aimed to assess RTs’ behaviors, attitudes, awareness, knowledge, and barriers related to EBP. Methods: A previously validated online questionnaire was distributed to RTs across Saudi Arabia between February and July 2025. The survey collected sociodemographic data and included 14 items assessing behaviors, attitudes, awareness, knowledge, prior formal EBP training, and perceived barriers to EBP implementation. Results: A total of 301 RTs participated, with 290 completing the survey. Most participants (75.2%) held a bachelor’s degree. Overall, respondents demonstrated positive attitudes toward EBP, with more than 60% agreeing that understanding research methods is essential to respiratory therapy practice. The most frequently used resources for clinical decision-making were personal experience (67.3%), expert opinion (65.5%), and national or international guidelines (65.5%). Awareness of core EBP concepts was moderate; approximately 30% of participants reported a good understanding of terms such as “systematic review,” “quality of evidence,” and “risk of bias.” Several barriers to EBP implementation were identified, most commonly limited access to resources (25.2%), insufficient research knowledge and skills (23.8%), and lack of interest (21.0%). Conclusions: RTs in Saudi Arabia generally support EBP principles and use evidence-based resources in clinical decision-making. However, gaps in training, access to resources, and research competency limit full EBP implementation. Targeted strategies, including integrating mandatory EBP education, expanding professional development, and enhancing access to research resources, are recommended.