Information is a key element of nursing practice (Unknown, 2004), although depending on the nurses’ role, how they access information may be very different. Take for example the staff nurse.  According to Sciba (2005), although 64% of study respondents acknowledged a need for information, only 25% researched CINAHL. This may be because of skill level (older nurses may lack computer skills, as well as database use knowledge), lack of confidence in their ability to undertake or disseminate research (Pierce, 2009), or a belief that they do not need to research information.  
But, one would be challenged to find a RN who does not frequently seek out or review hospital policy on which to base their practice. Policies are based on research, and although the staff nurse may not realize it, this is one method of information retrieval used to improve personal practice.