Which three components form the foundation of evidence-based practice?

Which three components form the foundation of evidence-based practice?

• A. Clinical expertise
• B. Patient values
• C. Research
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Evidence-based practice is built on three intertwined elements: clinical expertise, patient values and preferences, and the best available research evidence. The idea is to combine what clinicians have learned through experience and skill, with what matters to the patient, and with findings from high-quality research. When all three are considered together, decisions are scientifically sound, practically feasible, and aligned with what the patient cares about, making care more effective and patient-centered. Relying on research alone can miss individual goals or practical constraints, while relying only on intuition or preferences can overlook new evidence; integrating all three provides the strongest foundation for practice.

Evidence-based practice is built on three intertwined elements: clinical expertise, patient values and preferences, and the best available research evidence. The idea is to combine what clinicians have learned through experience and skill, with what matters to the patient, and with findings from high-quality research. When all three are considered together, decisions are scientifically sound, practically feasible, and aligned with what the patient cares about, making care more effective and patient-centered. Relying on research alone can miss individual goals or practical constraints, while relying only on intuition or preferences can overlook new evidence; integrating all three provides the strongest foundation for practice.