Theory and Application of Evidence-Based Practice

Catalog description

This course provides a foundational overview of evidence-based practice (EBP) in the health sciences, which includes an overview of the seven steps of the EBP process. Conceptual models that demystify the process of translating research into clinical practice will be presented; furthermore, common misconceptions of EBP will be explored. Students will be exposed to organizational cultures that foster a spirit of inquiry, and contemporary attitudes to identifying sources of evidence to be considered in answering a focused clinical (or researchable) question. An emphasis will be placed on developing core competencies in the gathering, and scrutiny of information to draw conclusions that are based on robust, inclusive, and meaningful evidence. Additional focus will consist of cultivating skill with implementing EBP in a manner that best fits the context of care/intervention, aligns with targeted goals, addresses priority problems as well as guides a systematic, and evaluative approach to collaborative practice change. Determinants of an EBP environment, and factors that lend to its sustainability or demise will also be discussed. Leveraging population health initiatives as a mechanism to move from silos to synergy will be highlighted given evidence to suggest an interdisciplinary paradigm to problem-solving yields improved health care processes, and patient/client-centered outcomes.