The aim of this study was to describe nurse leaders' perceptions and experiences of leading evidence-based practices (EBP).Leaders can promote EBP in nursing with their own personal example and by striving to renew structures, processes and working cultures. However, previous studies have shown that nurse leaders have tended to be passive with regard to EBP.An interview study using general qualitative methods. In total, 33 individual interviews and seven focus groups of leaders were conducted in 2015 and 2017. Data were analysed thematically.The respondents were unfamiliar with EBP as activities that lead to effective patient care. EBP were described as indistinguishable from other practices, lost and random. Overall, they lacked competence with EBP. The activities of nurse leaders do indicate a tentative commitment to EBP, but their main goals seem to be maintaining the status quo.Unfamiliarity with EBP reflects adversely on the operations of an entire organisation. The nurse leaders have an opportunity to enhance their understanding with EBP, which will lead to the renewal and improvement of the operating culture and the quality of strategic leadership.Leaders should take clear responsibility for EBP on the strategic, operational and educational level.