by Abby Sakovich M.S., CCC-SLP
Evidence-based practice, or EBP, is the joining of clinical expertise, scientific evidence, and
client/caregiver perspectives to provide the highest-quality services to children and adults
in all areas of communication disorders treatment. The American Speech-Language-
Hearing Association’s (ASHA) stance is that all speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and
audiologists include the principles of EBP when making clinical decisions. This way, clients
receive the most current, effective, and efficient treatment. Clinicians also protect clients’
interests, needs, and values when approaching assessment, treatment, and care with an
EBP mindset.
Key Steps to EBP Treatment Success
- Ask the Clinical Question
All answers to clinical problems or questions must include the experience and expertise of clinicians in order to be evidence-based.
- Find the Evidence
When making a treatment decision, choices should line up with practices the current body of evidence supports.
- Assessing the Evidence
Consider who published the chosen evidence. Was it produced by a trusted source, or was it funded and produced by an advocacy group? Studies designed using randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are most likely to lack bias.
- Make the Clinical Decision
The fourth and final step in using EBP involves merging clinical expertise, the perspective of the client, and the information gained from the evidence to make clinical treatment decisions about a given client.
How Much Evidence Do I Need?
There is no magic amount of evidence required when making choices clinically.
Considering the wants of the client, as well as the cost effectiveness and the possibility
for harm of the treatment can be helpful in eliminating some options. Also, it is wise
to consider and compare alternative treatment options. Finally, when sifting through
several treatment options, it is always best to trust your clinical experience and
judgment!
Resources
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