Evidence-Based Practice

Evidence-based practice (EBP) integrates the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values to improve clinical decisions and patient outcomes. It is not the same as following a guideline mechanically. A guideline may be current and well developed, yet still require adjustment for the person's comorbidities, goals, resources, culture, and tolerance for risk. Consider an NP deciding whether a new wound dressing reduces infection compared with standard care. The research may favour the new dressing, but the clinical decision also depends on whether the patient can obtain it, whether it causes pain or skin injury, how often it must be changed, and whether the proposed outcome matters to that patient. EBP prevents two opposite errors: relying on tradition without checking the evidence, or applying research without checking whether it fits the person in front of you. Leadership is part of this work. Provincial nursing standards describe leadership through advocacy, quality improvement, mentorship, autonomous decision-making, and collaboration—not only through a formal managerial role. The College of Nurses of Ontario identifies leadership expectations for RNs, RPNs, and NPs, including advocacy...