Abstract

To access Critical Appraisal of Biomedical Literature by Alan O’Rouke of the Wisdom Centre, Sheffield University, free registration is required at http://www.wisdomnet.co.uk/ with the seminar residing athttp://www.wisdomnet.co.uk/ebpsem2.html. The appraisal provides algorithms for the evaluation of primary research and review articles. It also introduces critical evaluation of web sites. The pertinence of this seminar is demonstrated by succinct illustrations of patient/physician confrontations in the clinic, where information gleaned from the Internet is often presented by patients in support of their requests for specific treatment modalities. Consideration of the methodology of appraisal will help equip the clinician with the skills to evaluate such propaganda with an objective and academic rigor. The questions of the suitability and relevance to the patient of received information are also considered. This is a pragmatic approach to critical appraisal.