Evidence-Based Practice

Question 1

EBP Triad (explain)

Answer 1

1. The best possible research - i.e. highest level and most recent.
2. Clinical expertise
3. Patient values and preferences

Question 2

Primary research (define)

Answer 2

Primary research involves the collection and publication of raw data in a single study by the original researcher.
E.g. surveys, interviews,

Question 3

Secondary research (define)

Answer 3

Secondary research involves the summary or synthesis of data that has been organised and published by others.
E.g. systematic reviews, meta-analyses.

Question 4

Systematic review (define)

Answer 4

A secondary paper that answers a focused clinical question through a structured and rigorous synthesis of original studies chosen with strict sampling and data collection procedures and formal protocol.

Question 5

Meta-analysis (define)

Answer 5

A procedure for statistically combining the results of many different quantitative research studies with measured outcomes, which effectively increases sample size and precision.

Question 6

Levels of evidence (explain)

Answer 6

1. Systematic review or meta-analysis of RCTs
2. Single RCT
3. Controlled trials (non-randomised)
4. Case-controlled or cohort studies
5. Systematic review of descriptive and qualitative studies (meta-synthesis)
6. Single descriptive or qualitative study
7. Expert opinion

Question 7

Science vs pseudoscience

Answer 7

Pseudoscience has fixed ideas, selects favourable evidence and generates non-repeatable results, views criticism as conspiracy and lacks peer review, and claims widespread utility.
Science has hypotheses but willing to change with new evidence, considers conflicting evidence and generates verifiable results, invites critique and engages peer review, and specifies claims of utility.

Question 8

EBP and research

Question 9

5 stages/principles of EBP

Answer 9

1. Identify the nursing problem
2. Search literature or resources
3. Critically evaluate quality and relevance of evidence
4. Select best evidence to address needs
5. Evaluate outcome/s after evidence based intervention

Question 10

Evidence-based practice (define)

Answer 10

EBP is an approach to care that integrates the best available research with clinical expertise and patient values or preferences. It involves translating evidence from research into nursing practice, for example by creating clinical guidelines and organisational policies. EBP aims to reduce the incidence of ineffective, unnecessary, or potentially harmful treatments.