What is the overall goal of Evidence-Based Practice in healthcare?

The overall goal of Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) in healthcare is to provide care that is informed by research, clinical expertise, and patient values. This approach combines the best available evidence from research studies with the practitioner's clinical skills and the preferences and values of patients to make well-informed decisions about patient care.

By integrating these three critical components, EBP aims to improve healthcare outcomes and ensure that the care provided is not only effective but also aligns with what the patient values and expects. This method fosters a more holistic and personalized approach to treatment, promoting better communication between healthcare providers and patients, and enhancing overall patient satisfaction and well-being.

The other options do not align with the fundamental principles of EBP. Following trends without regard to evidence can lead to suboptimal patient care. Minimizing healthcare spending is a goal of many healthcare systems, but it should not come at the expense of patient care quality or evidence-based practices. Lastly, prioritizing administrative requirements over patient care contradicts the essence of EBP, which places the patient's needs and informed choices at the forefront of healthcare decisions.