What is one consequence of not using evidence-based practices?

Not using evidence-based practices can lead to a potential for ineffective patient care and poor outcomes because these practices are designed to incorporate the best available research findings into clinical decision-making. Evidence-based practices rely on rigorous scientific studies, patient preferences, and clinician expertise to guide treatment decisions, which means they are likely to lead to better healthcare outcomes.

When healthcare providers do not follow these practices, they may resort to outdated or untested methods, which can result in suboptimal care. For instance, patients may receive treatments that have not been proven to be effective, leading to complications, slower recovery times, or a failure to address their health issues effectively. The implementation of evidence-based practices is important to ensure that patient care is aligned with the latest medical research, ultimately enhancing patient safety and the quality of care delivered.