What differentiates evidence-based practice from best practice?

• A. Best practice is defined as the currently best-supported approach based on tradition.
• B. Evidence-based practice integrates current research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient preferences; best practice is broader and may rely on tradition or consensus without rigorous evidence.
• C. Evidence-based practice ignores patient preferences.
• D. Best practice always equals evidence-based practice.

Answer: (B)

Evidence-based practice combines the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and the patient’s values and preferences. This means treatments are scientifically supported, practically workable for the clinician, and aligned with what the patient wants and needs. Best practice, on the other hand, is a broader idea that can reflect what is widely accepted or traditional or based on expert consensus, which may not always be backed by rigorous research. So a practice could be considered best by tradition or consensus even if there isn’t strong evidence, or it may be evidence-based and also fit patient preferences. That’s why the statement describing evidence-based practice as integrating research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient preferences, while best practice is broader and may rely on tradition or consensus without rigorous evidence, is the best choice.