From the Guidelines
The integration of best research evidence with clinical experience and patient values, preferences, concerns, and rights is a crucial aspect of evidence-based practice, which combines scientific research findings with healthcare providers' expertise and patients' individual circumstances to make optimal clinical decisions. This approach is supported by recent studies, such as the 2022 ACC/AHA/SCAI guideline for coronary artery revascularization, which emphasizes the importance of shared decision-making and patient-centered care 1.
Key Components of Evidence-Based Practice
- Combining scientific research findings with healthcare providers' expertise and patients' individual circumstances
- Considering patient values, preferences, concerns, and rights in clinical decision-making
- Engaging in meaningful shared decision-making conversations with patients
- Staying current with relevant research and developing strong clinical reasoning skills
The 2024 AUA/SUFU guideline on the diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic overactive bladder also highlights the importance of shared decision-making, stating that clinicians should engage in shared decision-making with patients, taking into account their expressed values, preferences, and treatment goals 1.
Benefits of Evidence-Based Practice
- Improves healthcare outcomes by reducing inappropriate variations in care and minimizing errors
- Increases the likelihood that patients receive interventions that align with both scientific evidence and their personal goals
- Respects patient autonomy, cultural backgrounds, and personal preferences
A 2019 systematic guideline review and expert consensus on the best clinical management of patients with multimorbidity and polypharmacy also emphasizes the importance of discussing patient preferences and expectations, and using the best available evidence when making decisions with or for individuals 1.
Recent Developments in Evidence-Based Practice
- The use of digital decision aids and choice experiments to support patient decision-making, as discussed in a 2025 scoping review on embedding a choice experiment in an online decision aid or tool 1
- The importance of considering patient values and preferences in preference-sensitive decisions, where a demonstrably superior treatment option is not available
Overall, the integration of best research evidence with clinical experience and patient values, preferences, concerns, and rights is essential for providing high-quality, patient-centered care, and is supported by a growing body of evidence from recent studies 1.
From the Research
Integration of Best Research Evidence with Clinical Experience and Patient Values
The integration of best research evidence with clinical experience (CE) and patient values, preferences, concerns, and rights is a crucial aspect of evidence-based practice (EBP) in healthcare settings. This integration is essential for providing high-quality patient care that is tailored to individual needs and preferences.
Key Components of Evidence-Based Practice
- Best research evidence: This refers to the use of current, relevant, and valid research findings to inform clinical decisions 2.
- Clinical experience (CE): This includes the healthcare provider's clinical expertise, skills, and judgment 2.
- Patient values, preferences, concerns, and rights: These are essential considerations in EBP, as they ensure that patient care is respectful, responsive, and tailored to individual needs and preferences 2, 3.
Importance of Integrating Patient Values and Preferences
The integration of patient values and preferences into EBP is critical for several reasons:
- It ensures that patient care is patient-centered and respectful of individual needs and preferences 2.
- It improves patient outcomes and satisfaction with care 3.
- It enhances the quality and safety of care by reducing errors and adverse events 3.
Challenges and Limitations
Despite the importance of integrating patient values and preferences into EBP, several challenges and limitations exist:
- Many EBP models and frameworks do not adequately incorporate patient values and preferences into their processes 2.
- Healthcare providers may lack the necessary skills and expertise to assess and integrate patient values and preferences into clinical decisions 2.
- The complexity and heterogeneity of patient needs and preferences can make it challenging to develop and implement effective EBP models and frameworks 3.
Lifestyle Modifications and Patient Outcomes
Lifestyle modifications, such as smoking cessation, healthy eating, and physical activity, can have a significant impact on patient outcomes, particularly in the prevention and management of chronic diseases 4, 5, 6. These modifications can be used as an adjunctive measure or alternative to pharmacotherapy in certain cases, and can help empower patients to take an active role in managing their health.