The core principle of evidence-based practice is collecting the most relevant scientific data available in diverse studies and scholarly papers to implement it into practice. Three fundamental elements of evidence-based practice include using the most recent external evidence, relying on relevant personal, professional experience, and addressing the values and expectations of each patient. Medicine is a rapidly developing science with new approaches emerging daily.
It has advanced significantly during the past few decades providing treatment to a number of previously incurable diseases. Therefore, it may be vital to obtain sufficient and up-to-date information in the field to provide high-quality care and comprehensive treatment. Moreover, while using the most recent research, evidence-based practice provides an individual approach to every patient. Such an approach corresponds with one of the fundamental principles of nursing, which is devoting attention to the patient’s needs. Finally, an evidence-based approach provokes further contributions to research in medicine and nursing in particular.
As already mentioned, utilizing the most relevant scientific data is an inseparable element of high-quality care. Patient outcomes may directly correlate with the quality of care, and hence with the extent to which evidence-based practices are implemented. Moreover, evidence-based practice improves and accelerates the process of decision-making as it provides ready-made frameworks for a variety of cases in diverse circumstances (Ellis, 2019, p. 12).
Another potential benefit is that the evidence-based practice identifies outdated methods and decommissions them. Evidence-based practices also provided medicine with a number of broadly utilized methods that have a considerable influence on patient outcomes. Some examples of these methods include HPV vaccination, oxygen provision to patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and even acknowledging the importance of family involvement. The above-mentioned practices were developed based on relevant evidence and have a significant positive impact on patient outcomes.
Reference
Ellis, P. (2019). Evidence-based practice in nursing. Learning Matters.