In context, 'evidence-based practice' most nearly means:

• A. Practices based on tradition
• B. Practices based on personal preference
• C. Practices based on budget
• D. Practices based on research and outcomes

Answer: (D)

Evidence-based practice means making decisions based on the best available research evidence and actual outcomes, rather than relying on tradition, personal preference, or budget alone. It centers on interventions that have been studied and shown to be effective, using data from research and measured results to guide choices. Traditions or personal likes can influence what we try, and budget matters for feasibility, but they don’t provide systematic proof of effectiveness. This approach prioritizes what research shows works and what outcomes are achieved.