Frequently Asked Questions

Thank you for visiting ECEBM. Please send us your questions about Evidence Based Medicine

Q: What are the Steps in the EBM Process?
A: Start with the patient -- a clinical problem or question arises out of the care of the patient

The question	Construct a well built clinical question derived from the case
The resource	Select the appropriate resource(s) and conduct a search
The Appraisal	perform a critical appraisal of the retrieved information for validity (closeness to the truth) and applicability (usefulness in clinical practice)
The patient	Return to the patient -- integrate the evidence with clinical expertise, patient preferences and apply it to practice
Self-evaluation	Evaluate your performance with this patient

---

Q: is EBM "cook book medicine"? Are decisions based solely on the evidence, down playing sound clinical judgment?.
A: EBM is NOT "cook book medicine". EBM should be one part of the process. Decisions must be blended with individual clinical expertise, patient preferences, and when available the best evidence

The Circle of Clinical Excellence
1. Ask
2. Acquire
3. Appraise
4. Apply
5. Audit