What is evidence-based practice?

Evidence-based practice (EBP) refers to the process that involves collection, processing, and implementing the latest scientific evidence. EBP helps nurses, and other health care professionals, make well-informed decisions based on the most current and best available scientific research. 

UNC Health Sciences Library. (2022). Evidence based practice resources. https://hsl.lib.unc.edu/services/evidence-based-practice-resources Retrieved 7/2023

ISU Library (2015)

Levels of Evidence

The "levels of evidence" in EBP is designed to determine a study's quality, validity, and applicability to patient care. Level 1 being the highest or "best" quality while level 5 is the "lowest." 

Level I

• Experimental study/Randomized controlled trial (RCT)
• Systemic reviews of RCTs, with or without meta-analysis

Level II

• Quasi-experiment study
• Systemic review of a combination of RCTs and quasi-experimental, or quasi-experimental studies only

Level III

• Non-experimental study
• Qualitative study
• Meta-synthesis

Level IV

• Clinical practice guidelines
• Opinion of nationally recognized experts based on research evidence or expert consensus panel

Level V

• Non-research evidence, such as opinions, case reports, literature reviews, etc.

Types of Resources