Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) Practice Exam

Which of the following is considered a step in the formal process to determine evidence-based practice?

1. Scrutinizing the quality of research evidence

2. Surveying practitioner opinions

3. Publishing an article in a peer-reviewed research journal

4. Conducting a research study of a variety of clients

The correct answer is: Scrutinizing the quality of research evidence

Scrutinizing the quality of research evidence is indeed a crucial step in the formal process to determine evidence-based practice. This process entails a careful evaluation of existing research studies to assess their reliability, validity, and applicability to specific clinical situations or client needs. By critically analyzing research evidence, practitioners can ensure that their decisions are grounded in high-quality information that is relevant to their practice, leading to improved outcomes for clients. The other options, while they may play a role in the broader context of understanding clinical practice or contributing to the field, do not specifically constitute a step in the systematic process of determining evidence-based practice. Surveying practitioner opinions may help gauge experiences and preferences, but it does not rely on empirical evidence. Publishing an article in a peer-reviewed research journal contributes to the body of knowledge but is not a step in evaluating current practices. Conducting a research study is essential for generating new knowledge but does not directly evaluate existing evidence. Thus, scrutinizing the quality of research evidence stands out as the correct step crucial for integrating research into practice.