Chapter 1 - Introduction to research, the research process and EBP

Question 1

What does ‘evidence-based practice’ mean?

Answer 1

• ‘The conscientious, explicit and judicious use of current best evidence in making decisions about the care of individual patients’
• A three-pronged and overlapping approach - Triad Approach

Question 2

What is the Triad Approach?

Answer 2

• The best possible research evidence
• Clinical expertise
• Patient values and preferences

Question 3

Define best possible research evidence?

Answer 3

• The higher the level of evidence, the better the evidence is
• looking for the best options currently available

Question 4

Define Clinical Expertise?

Answer 4

Takes into consideration your experiences, both personal and professional, to help guide you

Question 5

Define Patient Values and Preferences?

Answer 5

Their values and preferences should be the first thing that you take into consideration

Question 6

List the five essential steps in the emerging of EBP

Answer 6

1. Ask
   
   2. Acquire
   3. Appraise
   4. Apply
   5. Evaluate

Question 7

List examples of what EBP is not:

Answer 7

Decision making by:
- Anecdote
- Press cutting
- Expert opinion
- Cost minimisation

Question 8

Why are people apprehensive about evidence-based practice

Answer 8

People might be apprehensive towards EBP because of:
- statistics and number crunching
- complex research jargon

Question 9

How do we get started with evidence-based practice?

Answer 9

• 3 parts of a good clinical questions
  1. Who the question is about?
  2. Which manoeuvre (treatment, intervention, etc.) and a comparison manoeuvre (e.g. placebo or current standard therapy)
  3. Outcome measures (e.g. reduced mortality, better quality of life, cost savings)