Which description best illustrates evidence-based practice in nursing?

• A. Following routine practice without question.
• B. Reviewing current research to challenge routine practice.
• C. Relying on outdated guidelines.
• D. Personal anecdotes as the primary basis for care.

Answer: (B)

Evidence-based practice in nursing means using the best current evidence to guide care, integrated with clinical expertise and the patient’s values and preferences. Reviewing current research to challenge routine practice shows actively seeking up-to-date evidence and applying it to improve care, rather than simply following habits. This reflects the heart of evidence-based practice: question routines when new, high-quality evidence suggests a better approach and adjust care accordingly.

Routinely following practice without question, relying on outdated guidelines, or making decisions based on personal anecdotes do not align with evidence-based practice because they ignore current evidence, lack generalizability, or fail to consider patient needs and preferences.