Which statement best reflects the overall aim of evidence-based practice in nursing?

• A. To provide quality care and best practices.
• B. To maximize costs and resource use.
• C. To extend hospital stays.
• D. To minimize patient involvement.

Answer: (A)

Evidence-based practice in nursing means using the best available research evidence together with clinical expertise and the patient’s preferences to guide care, with the goal of achieving the best possible outcomes. The statement that best reflects this aim is providing quality care and adopting best practices. This captures both applying proven interventions and delivering high-quality care across settings. It also embodies using resources appropriately and prioritizing patient involvement in decisions about their care. The other options would lead to higher costs, unnecessary extended hospital stays, or less patient participation, which are not consistent with evidence-based practice.