Evidence-Based Practice: What's New Is Old.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare research
• Scientific methodology
• Knowledge translation

Background:

• Evidence-based practice (EBP) is a cornerstone of modern healthcare.
• The origins and evolution of EBP are often discussed in relation to research findings.
• Understanding the historical development of EBP is crucial for its effective implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate that evidence-based practice (EBP) originated from the process of research utilization.
• To explore the direct linkage between research utilization and EBP.
• To show that implementation science and de-implementation science also have roots in research utilization.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of the historical development of research utilization.
• Literature review examining the relationship between research utilization and EBP.
• Discussion of the foundational role of research utilization in newer scientific fields.

Main Results:

• Evidence-based practice (EBP) directly evolved from the principles and practices of research utilization.
• A strong, historical connection exists between the concepts of research utilization and EBP.
• Implementation science and de-implementation science share common origins with research utilization.

Conclusions:

• The historical trajectory shows EBP emerging from research utilization.
• Recognizing these roots can inform current and future knowledge translation efforts.
• Research utilization remains a fundamental concept underpinning various scientific implementation strategies.