Health professionals are expected to engage with evidence-based practice, yet often the process seems unclear and only partially undertaken. This paper offers a guide to locating evidence for practice. It illustrates the need for full breadth and depth in searching and appraisal, and the application needed to ensure that therapy is informed by best available research and is then integrated with professional skill and judgement. The process of evidence-based practice is illustrated through a case study to demonstrate how the use of best evidence has to be tailored and negotiated with the client to meet their needs and preferences. The dynamic nature of evidence-based hand-therapy practice is explored.
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