Evidence based medicine [part two] [the five steps]

ABSTRACT

Practical EBM requires, in sequence, a clear delineation of the relevant clinical question, a thorough search of the literature relating to the question, a critical appraisal of available evidence and its applicability to the clinical situation and a balanced application of the conclusions to the clinical problem. Balanced application of the evidence involves integrating research data with clinical expertise, judgment and with patient and social values. EBM is not an end in itself, but a principle, a tool that helps clinicians distinguish ignorance of evidence from real scientific uncertainty and distinguish evidence from unsubstantiated opinions and ultimately provides beer patient care. This article expands on the above five steps of EBM