Psychometric properties of an evidence-based practice competencies self-assessment scale

Background: Evidence-based practice competencies are essential for safe, high-quality nursing care; however, culturally validated instruments grounded in comprehensive competency frameworks remain limited. This study aimed to psychometrically test the Evidence-Based Practice Competencies Self-Assessment Scale for nurses in the Turkish cultural context. Methods: The study was conducted using a descriptive, cross-sectional, and methodological design. Data were collected between 2024 and 2025 from 304 nurses. Linguistic equivalence was ensured using forward and backward translation. Content validity was evaluated by expert review. Construct validity was examined using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Criterion-related validity was assessed through comparison with an established evidence-based practice measure, and known-groups validity was tested based on evidence-based practice training. Reliability was evaluated using internal consistency, split-half reliability, test–retest reliability, and item–total correlations. Results: Content validity indices were satisfactory. Exploratory factor analysis identified a four-factor structure explaining more than half of the total variance. Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated acceptable model fit. Moderate and significant correlations supported criterion-related validity. Nurses who had received evidence-based practice training scored significantly higher than those who had not. The scale demonstrated high internal consistency and strong test–retest reliability. Conclusion: The scale is a valid and reliable instrument for assessment of nurses’ evidence-based practice competencies and suitable in both clinical and educational settings.