THL Evidence-Based Practice

Assess the Outcomes    

Provides a brief introduction to outcomes assessment.

Assess the Process

Describes the self-reflection component of Evidence-Based Practice.

Assessment is an important part of evidence-based practice. If you are applying EBP in a real-world setting, you will measure and assess outcomes relevant to your question. These may be process-, population-, or patient-related outcomes depending on your question.

Develop an assessment plan before you apply the evidence in the fourth step of the EBP process. Consider what outcomes you would need to assess your evidence-based practice. Measure and analyze the data to determine whether the outcomes were a success, but don't stop there! Disseminate your process and findings within your organization and in the professional literature to help inform future EBP.

Self-reflection can be a helpful assessment tool for evidence-based practice, especially for EBP course assignments and projects.

Consider the following questions as you reflect on your EBP process:

• Did I ask a focused question?
• Was I comfortable selecting resources to answer my questions?
• Did I develop an efficient search for information?
• Did I critically appraise the literature?
• Did I consider patient or client values, preferences, and circumstances as I applied the information?
• How will I continue to practice and hone my EBP skills?

The self-reflection is designed to highlight areas where you may need to seek additional help or learning. Depending on the area, that help may come from an expert in the field, a clinician, or an informationist. For help selecting an appropriate database or developing a search strategy, contact us at thlibrary@umich.edu.