Evidence-Based Practice: Overview

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is the process of collecting, processing, and implementing research findings to improve clinical practice, the work environment, or patient outcomes. It is a problem solving approach to clinical practice that incorporates high-quality evidence from well-designed studies along with the patient's values and desires, and the clinician's knowledge and expertise to make decisions about a patient's care.

Image: Evidence Based Practice Resources Subject Guide, UC Davis Libraries, https://www.library.ucdavis.edu/guide/ebp-resources/

MSK achieved Magnet® recognition on February 17, 2016. A significant aspect of Magnet® is that nursing care must be rooted in evidence-based practice. MSK's N-CARE Program fulfills part of the evidence-based practice philosophy by requiring nurses to complete evidence-based clinical research questions based on the PICO(T) framework.

Image: Cultivating Curiousity Module, McGill University Libraries, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8VCu-peFm4

Step 0 - Cultivate a spirit of inquiry within an EBP culture and environement

Step 1 - Ask the burning clinical question in PICOT format

Step 2 - Search for and collect the most relevant best evidence

Step 3 - Critically appraise the evidence (i.e. rapid critical appraisal, evaluation, synthesis, and recommendations)

Step 4 - Integrate the best evidence with one's clinical expertise and patient preferences and values in making a practice decision or change

Step 5 - Evaluate outcomes of the practice decision or change based on evidence

Step 6 - Disseminate the outcomes of the EBP decision or change

Source: Melnyk BM. Implementing the Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) Competencies in Healthcare : A Practical Guide to Improving Quality, Safety, and Outcomes. ; 2016. (Table 1.2, p. 11)