What is evidence-based practice (EPB)?
EBP is the process of applying up-to-date research in conjunction with clinical expertise and patient values and choices, to ensure the best possible care. EPB therefore occurs at the intersection of evidence, clinical expertise, and patient preference. We locate the best evidence by asking a focused, clearly formulated question and using systematic and explicit methods to identify, select and appraise research and data.
Why is EBP important?
- Keeps you up with new developments
- Assists with making informed clinical decisions based on quality evidence
- Helps incorporate research into practice
- Contributes to increased patient satisfaction.
Successful EBP hinges on access to high quality information. Research has shown that when clinicians have access to this information, patient care management is better informed 75% of the time, and when clinicians access these resources, 95% if their clinical decisions are better informed (Marshall, 2013).
Education and Training
BMJ Best Practice EBM toolkit
CIAP EBP Learning modules have been developed to support NSW Health clinicians gain skills to integrate the best available evidence into practice. Each learning module focuses on a different aspect of EBP.
- Module 1 Introduction to EBP - Introduces the concept and five steps of evidence-based practice (EBP) to improve patient outcomes. The levels of evidence including primary and secondary forms of evidence.
- Module 2 Ask the Question - The PICO methodology for formulating a searchable question and techniques for building a search strategy including identifying search terms, subject headings, Boolean operators, and applying limits.
- Module 3 Acquire the Evidence – This module applies skills to acquire primary and secondary evidence from well-known databases such as Medline and Embase. Database navigation and key features including basic and advanced search, subject headings, combining search terms, and applying limits to search results are discussed.
- Module 4 Appraise, Apply, Assess the Evidence – This module introduces a framework to critically appraise the literature to judge its trustworthiness, value, and relevance. How to apply the best available evidence into practice as well as assessing the effects of change in practice are also covered.