Considerations for Assessment and Applicability of Studies of Intervention

Abstract

Evidence-based practice changed how health care professionals are taught medical practice. Despite all best intentions, many health care professionals have limited knowledge to assess the validity and usefulness of the medical literature. The goal of this article is to review the following basic considerations while appraising studies of intervention: (1) the hierarchy of evidence and the strengths and weaknesses of clinical studies, (2) the relevant elements of study design that impact validity of study results, and (3) the spectrum of efficacy and effectiveness of clinical studies and how these influence the applicability of study results to individual patients.

Keywords: Applicability of evidence; Evidence-based medicine; Evidence-based practice; Hierarchy of evidence; Levels of evidence; Quality of evidence.