Teaching evidence-based nursing practice to student nurses in developing countries: strategies for novice nurse educators

Abstract Introduction Globally, Evidence based nursing practice (EBNP) is becoming an expected norm for nursing practice. The small-scale activities surrounding this practice in African countries indicate a need for better approaches to enhance EBNP. One of these approaches is strengthening nursing education through EBNP education. Objectives The purpose of this paper is to provide strategies to African novice nurse educators to teach EBNP, with the ultimate goal of promoting it in clinical settings when the student nurses enter professional practice. Methods This is a discussion paper based on the results of a systematic review. Results In this paper, the authors create an understanding of EBNP, describe the state of nursing education in Africa, and propose the EBNP content to be taught as well as how to teach it. Conclusions Emphasis is on educational strategies that create student engagement, promote critical thinking, unite clinical and classroom settings, and are cost-effective within the context of Africa.