critical appraisal and observational research

Question 1

what is a critical appraisal

Answer 1

process of systematically examining research to assess its validity, trustworthiness of results and value/relevance

Question 2

what to consider in terms of validity

Answer 2

is there a clear statement of aims (pop. of interest, intervention, outcomes etc.), have appropriate methods been used?

Question 3

what to consider in terms of trustworthiness

Answer 3

how precise r the fidnings; do the results fit established research

Question 4

what to consider in terms of value/relevance

Answer 4

who can the findings be applied to; what is the practical relevance; can results be applied locally

Question 5

examples of observational studies (7)

Answer 5

systematic review of RCTs; systematic review of cohort studies; cohort studies; case control studies; cross-sectional survey; case series; case report

Question 6

what are the 5 best kinds of studies to do (hierarchically)

Answer 6

systematic review of RCTs; multiple confirmatory RCTs; controlled clinical trial; systematic review of cohort studies; cohort studies