Abstract
Background: Social media has potential to facilitate research dissemination to busy practitioners, such as nurses to enhance, evidence-based care
Aims: To explore the effectiveness of social media for disseminating research evidence to practitioners and explore how nurses use social media to access research evidence.
Methods: This multi-methods study included a systematic review (PROSPERO 2022 CRD42022378793, doi: 10.2196/45684) and qualitative interview study.
Six databases were searched from January 2010 to January 2023. Randomised and non-randomised trials, pre/post designs and case studies were included. Independent reviewers conducted screening, data extraction and quality assessment (Cochrane tool for assessing risk of bias and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale). Outcomes were grouped into four domains (reach, engagement, direct dissemination, impact). Twenty-one nurses from a range of practice settings were interviewed. Verbatim transcripts were anonymised and analysed thematically.
Results: Fifty mixed quality articles were included (9 randomised controlled trials). Social media was effective for dissemination (article download) compared to no social media and somewhat effective for reach, engagement and impact. Nurses used open and closed social media platforms professionally, although seldom within working hours due to lack of access and time. Open platforms were valued as they raised awareness of diverse research evidence. Closed social media groups provided an extended professional network and community of practice around specialist areas. Authenticity of research evidence shared via social media was rarely questioned and interviewees tended to assess the credibility of the originator of the social media information (i.e., credible organisations) rather than critically appraise research evidence being shared. Participants reported that they lacked training to use social media.
Conclusion: Social media is an effective means of disseminating research evidence and offers the opportunity to expand professional networks and awareness of research evidence. Judicious use and a critical approach to research evidence shared on social media is required to minimise the risk of misinformation.
Aim
To answer the research question
'Is social media an effective and acceptable approach for disseminating health research evidence to practitioners?'
Intended Impact of the Study
This work will inform the social media dissemination strategy of researchers and funding bodies
Publication:
Roberts-Lewis SF, Baxter HA, Mein G, Quirke-McFarlane S, Leggat FJ, Garner HM, Powell M, White S, Bearne L
The Use of Social Media for Dissemination of Research Evidence to Health and Social Care Practitioners: Protocol for a Systematic Review
JMIR Res Protoc 2023;12:e45684
Project Lead
Project Collaborators
Contact Project Author
Research Area(s)
Study Design(s)
Other Designs: Multi-methods: Review and qualitative study