How do you use evidence to make social work decisions?

1 Define the question

The first step is to identify and clarify the question or problem that you want to address with evidence. This can be related to assessment, intervention, evaluation, or policy. You can use the PICO framework to help you define the question, which stands for Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome. For example, you might ask: What is the best intervention for homeless youth with substance use disorders (population) to reduce their drug use (outcome) compared to standard care (comparison)?

2 Search for evidence

The next step is to search for relevant and reliable evidence that can answer your question or inform your decision. You can use various sources of evidence, such as peer-reviewed journals, systematic reviews, practice guidelines, databases, or websites. However, you need to evaluate the quality and credibility of the evidence, as well as its applicability and suitability to your context and client. You can use tools such as the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklists to help you assess the evidence.

3 Appraise and synthesize the evidence

The third step is to appraise and synthesize the evidence that you have found, and compare and contrast the different findings and recommendations. You need to consider the strengths and limitations of the evidence, as well as the level of confidence and certainty that you can draw from it. You also need to look for gaps and inconsistencies in the evidence, and identify any areas that need further research or exploration. You can use tools such as the GRADE approach to help you grade the evidence.

4 Apply the evidence

The fourth step is to apply the evidence to your practice and decision-making, in collaboration with your client and other stakeholders. You need to consider the client's values, preferences, needs, and goals, as well as the feasibility, acceptability, and cost-effectiveness of the intervention or action. You also need to adapt the evidence to your specific situation and context, and tailor it to the client's characteristics and circumstances. You can use tools such as the PARiHS framework to help you implement the evidence.

5 Evaluate the outcome

The final step is to evaluate the outcome and impact of your decision or intervention, based on the evidence and your practice experience. You need to monitor and measure the changes and results that occur, and compare them to your expected goals and objectives. You also need to reflect on your learning and feedback, and identify any challenges or barriers that you faced or overcame. You can use tools such as the RE-AIM framework to help you evaluate the outcome.