Thread by @nb_covid_info

I would like to start something new on Thursdays. Because I love cats, I'm starting #CriticalAppraisalThursday or CAT, to help folks learn how to assess evidence. Just a weekly thread about critical appraisal and information literacy.
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For the first ever CAT, we'll start with a definition. Critical appraisal is a structured, systematic way to assess the validity and reliability of research. You can also assess its applicability to your specific question or situation.
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Was this study done in a way that actually gathers information to answer the question it claims to ask and answer? Can the results of this study be applied to my patient or situation?
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Those are big questions. Critical appraisal tools can give you a structure for answering those questions. You can find a variety of critical appraisal tools or worksheets online to help you with critical appraisal of a study.
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One resource is the Centre for Evidence Based Medicine. You can find their critical appraisal tools here, translated into several languages: cebm.ox.ac.uk/resources/ebm-…
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Sometimes I feel like I've been trying to teach the 1st yr med students about EBM all over again, except the lecture hall is this deteriorating social media platform. Some of you are here for the class, and others are just peeking in the door on your way somewhere else. /6

Please let me know if you like the idea of CAT or #CriticalAppraisalThursday and what kinds of tips or resources might help you to exercise your critical thinking muscles. I think it will help me to have a structured way to contribute. 7/7
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