The application of evidence is the next step once the evidence has been critically appraised, and found to be valid, reliable and relevant to the patient/population of focus. Clinical knowledge and experience are synthesized with the gathered evidence and the patients' values to reach a clinical decision.
Considerations for the application of evidence:
- Critical appraisal of the evidence: is it relevant to the clinical context and patient values?
- Is it optimal for patient treatment?
- Does this conform with the patient's values and preferences?
- Have the potential benefits, harms, costs, and inconveniences been considered?