Therapists: Are you using evidence-based practice?

All occupational therapists should be utilizing an evidence-based practice (EBP) approach, in any setting. So, what is EBP and what does it consist of?

1. Clinical expertise- what have you experienced as a practitioner? What topics have you focused on for professional development and continuing education? How many years experience? What have you seen and how does that apply to your current work?

2. The best research evidence- are you looking at the most recent peer- reviewed research regarding an intervention? A diagnosis? A specific treatment approach?

3. Client values, preferences, expectations- our clients are not all the same! Our clients’ experiences and prognosis for treatment are influenced by personal factors such as physical and mental health status, as well as by their values, habits, roles, routines, culture, environment, and more.

The delicate balance of these three components is evidence based practice and it is forever evolving. As practitioners, we must remember to attend to all three and use our professional expertise and artful analysis to support the children and families we serve.