Modeling the individual determinants of research utilization

Despite more than two decades of investigation our accumulated knowledge ab out what influences nurses' use of research is underdeveloped. This study's objectives were to develop and test a series of structural equation models that included individual factors believed to influence research utilizatio n. Estimates of the models were obtained using maximum likelihood estimatio n. Model fit was assessed by examining chi-square, the adjusted goodness of fit index, and the standardized residuals. Within a simple model that perm itted only direct effects and controlled for instrumental, conceptual, and persuasive research utilization, 3 of 26 concepts exerted significant effec ts on research utilization. These were a positive attitude toward research, belief suspension, and in-services attended These results support the asse rtion that our descriptive body of research on the determinants of research utilization is underdeveloped, limiting our ability to design and test eff ective strategies to increase the use of research findings in nursing pract ice.