What practice is defined as utilizing various sources of evidence to improve client outcomes?

The concept of using various sources of evidence to enhance client outcomes is embodied in the term 'evidence-informed practice.' This approach integrates the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values. It emphasizes the systematic use of current, high-quality information to guide decision-making in nursing and healthcare.

In evidence-informed practice, nurses consider diverse forms of evidence, including clinical guidelines, research studies, expert opinions, and individual patient preferences and circumstances. The goal is to make informed decisions that improve the quality of care and lead to better health outcomes for patients.

This practice contrasts sharply with the other choices provided. Determinants of health refer to the factors that influence health status, such as socioeconomic conditions or biological factors, and do not focus on the application of evidence in clinical settings. Nursing standards are guidelines that outline the competencies and behaviors expected of nurses but do not specifically address the integration of evidence into practice. The term 'population' broadly refers to groups of individuals within certain demographics and does not specifically connect to the use of evidence to inform practice. Therefore, evidence-informed practice is the best choice as it specifically pertains to using evidence to directly enhance client care and outcomes.