What are the essential elements of evidence-based practice?

The essential elements of evidence-based practice include best research evidence, nurse clinical expertise, and patient preferences, making this the correct choice.

Best research evidence refers to the most current and relevant scientific studies that guide clinical decision-making, ensuring that practices are grounded in reliable data. Nurse clinical expertise encompasses the skills and knowledge that healthcare professionals develop through their education and experience, allowing them to assess and interpret research findings effectively. Lastly, patient preferences incorporate individual values, needs, and circumstances, ensuring that care is tailored to what is important to each patient, thus enhancing their involvement in their own care decisions.

This comprehensive approach balances data from research with the practical insights of nursing experience and the unique perspectives of patients, which is vital for delivering quality care. Other choices lack this necessary integration of elements. For instance, relying solely on personal opinions or clinical experience does not provide the comprehensive foundation necessary for effective decision-making in patient care. Focusing exclusively on patient feedback or clinical experience alone neglects the critical role of research evidence in informing practice.