What is evidence-based practice in nursing?

Evidence-based practice in nursing refers to the judicious use of the best research-based evidence to guide clinical decision-making and improve patient care. This approach integrates clinical expertise, patient values, and the best available evidence from research to achieve optimal health outcomes.

When nursing professionals engage in evidence-based practice, they rely on current, high-quality research to inform their choices rather than solely depending on personal experience or intuition. This is essential to ensure that the care provided is effective, safe, and aligned with the most recent advancements in healthcare. By utilizing research findings, nurses can critically evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, leading to improved patient care quality and better health outcomes.

In contrast to other options, relying solely on intuitive judgment or personal experience may not always lead to the best clinical decisions, as these methods can be subjective and may lack the supporting data to confirm their efficacy. While technology can enhance practice, it is not a standalone determinant of evidence-based care. Evidence-based practice ensures that care is rooted in scientific research, which is vital in the ever-evolving field of healthcare.