3 - RCT Critical Appraisal 3**

Question 1

What are some questions to consider when determining if results are valid?

Answer 1

• Was the study original?
• What was the study about?
• Was the study design reasonable?
• Were px randomized?
• Were px in tx and control groups similar w/ respect to known prognostic factors?
• Was randomization concealed?
• Were px analyzed in the groups to which they were randomized?
• Was follow up complete?

Question 2

What should be considered when questioning if the study is original?

Answer 2

• Is the study bigger, longer, or otherwise more substantial
• Is the population studied in a different way (age, gender, ethnic groups)
• Is the clinical issue addressed of sufficient importance and relevance

Question 3

What should be considered when questioning what the study was about?

Answer 3

• Are they of similar age and gender to px you might care for in your practice
• Inclusion criteria
• Exclusion criteria
• Do they have “real life” comorbidities

Question 4

What should be considered when questioning if the study design is reasonable?

Answer 4

• Was intervention appropriate
• Was comparator appropriate
• How was the outcome measured (primary vs. secondary; soft vs. hard; surrogate; composite)

Question 5

What happens when lots of participants are lost to follow up?

Answer 5

Will compromise study validity