Validation of the Brazilian Portuguese version of Evidence-based Practice Knowledge Assessment in Nursing (EKAN)

Abstract

Objective: The Evidence-based Practice Knowledge Assessment in Nursing (EKAN) is an objective measure of evidence-based practice (EBP) knowledge. The aims of the project were to translate the EKAN instrument into Brazilian Portuguese, test its psychometric properties, and document a baseline assessment of students' EBP knowledge.

Method: This study used methodological design. The EKAN-Brazilian Portuguese was administered to nursing students from two baccalaureate programs. Data were analyzed using Rasch procedures.

Results: 123 students participated (87% ranged 19-25 years old; 60% were juniors; 38% perceived having no exposure to EBP). Validity indices showed the mean difficulty index = -2.48 to 2.07, the Infit (WMS) mean was.985 (SD = 2.13), and the Outfit (UMS) mean was.975 (SD = 0.17). Reliability indices showed sufficient item separation index (4.47); moderate person separation index (.47); high item reliability (.95); and low person reliability (.18). The mean EKAN sum score (max = 20) was 7.6 (SD = 2.13).

Conclusion: This study on the EKAN-Brazilian Portuguese version provided sufficient evidence for validity and reliability; the person reliabilities showed the need for improvement in incorporating EBP concepts and content in nursing programs.