There are five steps in the evidence-based practice process.

Throughout this guide, we will use the following clinical case through each of the steps of the evidence-based practice process.

Clinical Scenario:

The patient is a 65 year old male with a long history of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Otherwise his medical history is unremarkable. He does not smoke. He had knee surgery 10 years ago, but has had no other major medical problems. Over the years he has tried numerous diets and exercise programs to reduce his weight, but has not been very successful. His granddaughter just started high school, and he wants to see her graduate and go on to college. He understands that his diabetes puts him at risk for heart disease and is frustrated that he cannot lose the necessary weight. His neighbor told him about a colleague at work who had his stomach stapled and as a result not only lost over 100 lbs., but also "cured" his diabetes. He wants to know if this procedure really works.