American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (2004). Evidence-based practice in communication disorders: An introduction [Technical Report]. Available from www.asha.org/policy.
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Main Point: The purpose of this technical report is to provide an overview of evidence-based practice, to describe the importance an d relevance of evidence-based practice, and to outline ways in which more credible evidence could become available in the fields of speech-language pathology and audiology. |
Relevance: This report is a technical report issued by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) that outlines why evidence-based practice should be used and how the amount of pertinent research could be increased in order to aid in evidence-based practice in the fields of speech-language pathology and audiology. This is definitely relevant to the fields because it is derived from ASHA, which is the national association that governs both speech-language pathology and audiology. This is the association that created the Code of Ethics which practicing clinicians abide by. |
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Concepts: Evidence is available for practicing clinicians, however before using a piece of evidence one should evaluate the quality of the research presented. ASHA has presented five themes that will help rate the evidence that is being evaluated. The themes include: independent confirmation and converging evidence; experimental control; avoidance of subjectivity and bias; effect sizes and confidence intervals; and relevance and feasibility. |
Connections: In classes we are always told that evidence-based practice is best practice when treating a client. We are also told that we must use the best current evidence and our clinical judgment. I have found that whenever I read a research article I always question who wrote the article, who published the article, was the article bias, etc. As I question I also take into account methods and techniques that I have used that have worked and that I have seen work. The technical statement made me realize how important it is that evidence-based practice is engrained in future speech-language pathologists and audiologists. I think that this should continue to be stressed to future clinicians. However, I do not feel that individuals just beginning the program would fully understand the importance of evidence-based practice. I know that I did not value it’s importance until later on in my academic career.
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Summarize: Evidence-based practice is the best way to practice as a clinician. In order, to best treat our clients, clinicians need to review the evidence available, use their judgment, and take into account the values and beliefs of the client and his/her family. When reviewing evidence the clinician should take into account five themes: independent confirmation and converging evidence; experimental control; avoidance of subjectivity and bias; effect sizes and confidence intervals; and relevance and feasibility. Based on these themes the clinician can evaluate the quality of the research evidence. Evidence-based practice is encouraged by ASHA. Furthermore, ASHA has outlined ways in which more credible research can be obtained. |
Confusions: Knowing that evidence-based practice is the best practice, what if a client’s values or beliefs conflict with the best method of treatment? What should a clinician do if this happens? Is it OK to try and convince the client to follow the method? Should results of case studies be used if they are the only available source? What if there are several conflicting reports of a specific treatment method, should the clinicians clinical judgment be used? |
