References
EBVM: a quick guide to evaluating veterinary evidence
Abstract
The ability to evaluate evidence is a key skill for veterinary professionals pursuing an evidence-based approach to patient care. The evidence available on a particular topic in the veterinary field may be of variable quality though and the strengths and weaknesses of the type of evidence should be considered. The way a research study is conducted can also impact on the validity and reliability of the results presented and aspects of study design, such as control groups, representative samples, sample size, elimination of bias and outcome measures, should be evaluated. This article gives further insight into the evaluation of research studies including examples to aid understanding.
In the past, the evaluation of published research may have been perceived as something that was reserved for those undertaking academic studies. However, in recent times there has been recognition of the need to justify clinical decisions and to ensure the best treatment decisions are being made for our patients. This is better known as evidence-based veterinary medicine (EBVM); the use of current best evidence in making clinical decisions (Cockcroft and Holmes, 2003).
Unfortunately, the pursuit of EBVM is not as simple as finding relevant research for a case, noting the results and implementing the care suggested. The quality of research available is variable, so the ability to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of sources is key to the practice of EBVM and is therefore a key skill that all veterinary professionals should possess.
This article will consider the different sources of evidence you may come across and the relevant aspects of study design that should be evaluated to assess the strength of the research presented.
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