What is evidence-based practice (EBP) and how should nurses incorporate it into daily care?

• A. Integrating best current evidence with clinical expertise and patient preferences; steps include ask, acquire, appraise, apply, and evaluate.
• B. Relying only on institutional tradition.
• C. Implementing changes based solely on patient demands.
• D. Using the most recent study without clinical context.

Answer: (A)

Evidence-based practice means delivering care guided by the best available research evidence, while also incorporating clinical expertise and the patient’s values and preferences. In daily nursing care, this starts with formulating a clear clinical question, then seeking out high-quality evidence, critically appraising that evidence for validity and relevance, and then applying the findings to the patient’s situation. After implementing changes, outcomes are evaluated to determine if the care improved and to inform future decisions. The familiar steps—ask, acquire, appraise, apply, and evaluate—help make evidence-based practice a practical, ongoing process rather than a one-time event.

Relying only on institutional tradition misses current science, which can lead to outdated or suboptimal care. Basing changes solely on patient demands may neglect safety, feasibility, and broader evidence. Using the most recent study without considering its quality or the clinical context can result in inappropriate care. In short, evidence-based practice blends research, clinical judgment, and patient preferences to optimize outcomes.