Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC) Practice Exam

What is a primary factor in achieving successful patient outcomes in nursing?

1. Intuition

2. Evidence-based practice

3. Experience alone

4. Standardized procedures

The correct answer is: Evidence-based practice

Evidence-based practice is a critical factor in achieving successful patient outcomes in nursing because it integrates the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values. This approach ensures that care provided is scientifically validated and is aligned with the latest advancements and guidelines in the field. By utilizing evidence-based practice, nurses can make informed decisions that directly enhance patient safety, improve care quality, and foster better health outcomes. It involves continuous learning and application of research findings, which can significantly inform assessment, diagnosis, and interventions. In contrast, relying solely on intuition or experience may not always lead to optimal outcomes, as these factors can be subjective and not universally applicable. Similarly, while standardized procedures help maintain consistency and safety in clinical practice, they are most effective when built on a foundation of evidence-based research to ensure they align with current best practices.