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Systematic Reviews

  STEP 5: Assess Quality (Critical Appraisal)

"Critical appraisal includes recognizing and evaluating various study designs and their ranking in order of strength, judging relevance to the question at hand, identifying potential sources of bias, and determining whether the data presentation, statistical analysis, and conclusions are appropriate." - Morris MJ, Fewell AE, Oleszewski RT. Evidence-Based Medicine. Southern Medical Journal. 2012; 105 (3): 114-119.

Critical appraisal is an important step in the systematic review process. Expect to:

  • Perform critical appraisal/quality assessment of studies you wish to include. Critical appraisal checklists are available to assist with this step.
  Critical Appraisal Tools & Checklists
  Articles on How to Critique Appraisal

Critical Appraisal Process: Step-by-Step. Timm DF, Banks DE, McLarty, J. (2012). Southern Medical Journal, 105(3), 144-148.

Evidence-Based Medicine: Specific Skills Necessary for Developing Expertise in Critical Appraisal. Morris MJ, Fewell AE, Oleszewski RT. (2012). Southern Medical Journal, 105(3), 114-119.

Impact of Patient Selection in Various Study Designs: Identifying Potential Bias in Clinical Results. Berbano EP, Baxi N. (2012). Southern Medical Journal, 105(3), 149-155.

Modified with permission from  https://henryford.libguides.com/sr

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