Evidence-Based Practice or Practice-Based Evidence: What's in a Name?

摘要

In previous editorials, we have highlighted the role of the body of knowledge that makes up a profession. This body of knowledge is secured through the balanced relationship among clinical practice, research, and education, Each discipline fosters further development within the others, and it is critically important that there is harmony among all three. Evidence-based practice has emerged as the means by which clinical practice and scholarship are integrated into clinical decision-making. Based on one's clinical experience, incorporated with the best available research evidence and the preferences of the patient, an evidence-based practitioner can enhance his or her clinical decisions. Much of what we are working toward in the athletic training profession is geared toward helping our practicing members enrich their clinical decisions with these principles. However, there are challenges to the advancement of evidence-based practice. One of the major challenges is the lack of substantial and conclusive evidence to guide clinical decisions within the domains of our body of knowledge. How do we engage in evidence-based practice if the evidence is inconclusive or lacking? The purpose of this editorial is to discuss a pathway in our profession that may allow us to bridge the gap between where we are now and where we can be in the evidence-based practice landscape.