Bridging Barriers to Evidence-Based Practice and Knowledge Utilisation: Leadership Strategies in Acute Care Nursing

Background: The implementation of evidence-based practice (EBP) is crucial for improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery, yet it faces significant challenges in acute care settings due to organisational barriers, resource limitations, and leadership complexities. This study explores how ward managers (WMs) facilitate knowledge utilisation (KU) and promote EBP adoption in these environments. Methods: A longitudinal qualitative case study design was conducted over eight months in two acute care hospitals in the East Midlands, England. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 23 NMs, nonparticipant observations, and document analysis. Thematic analysis was used to identify key findings. Results: Six themes emerged: navigating leadership challenges, overcoming organisational and resource barriers, sustaining EBP through learning networks, integrating technology, tailoring EBP to patient-centred care, and providing emotional support for staff. Hybrid leadership strategies, combining directive and collaborative approaches, were critical in addressing barriers, fostering engagement, and embedding EBP into workflows. Mentorship and resource management also played pivotal roles. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for tailored leadership strategies, innovative resource utilisation, and sustainable learning networks to overcome systemic challenges and promote EBP. These findings provide actionable insights for fostering evidence-informed care environments in resource-constrained acute care settings.