Types of literature, study designs and EBP Flashcards
What are 2 strengths of primary literature?
Cutting edge research
Could be the only source of information on a new drug or rare diseass
What are 3 limitations of primary literature?
Possible flaws in the study methodology
Critical appraisal necessary
New information means it may take time before it’s widely accepted in the medical community
What are 3 strengths of secondary literature?
- Many primary sources consulted to write one article on a topic
- Collect many, sometimes all primary research studies on a given topic via a literature search
- Saves time
What are 2 limitations of secondary literature?
- Need to examine sources included
- Search strategy description and process may be weak
What are 3 strengths of tertiary literature?
- Quick access to primary and secondary literature
- Good for background information
- Easy to use
What are 3 limitations of tertiary literature?
- Chapter length restriction may limit in-depth discussion
- May not be the most current information
- Hard to identify if the authors looked at the right sources and if the included literature has been appraised
What is generally the order that you should consult literature in? (primary, secondary, tertiary)
- Generally, tertiary, secondary, primary
- Unless you’re looking for information on a new and emerging topic or one that has conflicting evidence
What are cohort studies?
Observational studies that starts with patients with an exposure and follows them forward in time,.
What are some limitations of cohort studies?
No randomization, risk of bias is higher, can demonstrate associations not causation
What are case control studies?
Observational studies– patients with and without a condition are compared to identify which past exposures may have contributed to the condition.
What is a limitation with case control studies?
Quality issue with self-reported data
What are case series/case reports?
A small collection of reports on the diagnosis, treatment, and follow up of a few individual patients or one patient.
What is one benefit and one limitation of case reports?
Good: can highlight side effects of a new drug
Bad: Low statistical significance due to small sample size
What are editorials, opinions and animal research?
Published commentary based on clinician experience
What are limitations of editorials, opinions and animal research?
Greater risk of bias or selective reporting
Findings from animal research cannot always be applied to humans
