What is evidence-based practice?

Evidence-based practice (EBP) first evolved within medicine in the early 1990s, and has since influenced nearly every clinical discipline. Despite differing definitions, its central tenet remains the appropriate integration of relevant best practice (usually based on published research findings when available) into clinical practice. EBP has also attracted criticisms; but, notwithstanding these, there are many reasons why healthcare professionals need to have an understanding of EBP as it now stands, ranging from its potential to contribute to improved clinical outcomes, through to participation in the further development and refinement of EBP. Minimally, clinicians should be aware of, understand, and be able to find EBP resources that provide access to research already appraised for both its quality and relevance. More extensive EBP skills remain highly desirable, and might be viewed as essential skills for life-long learning regardless of EBP.