Section 1: Appraising the evidence

Learning outcomes

By the end of this section you will be able to:

• Define terms related to the critical appraisal of randomised controlled trials (RCTs)
• Utilise a rapid appraisal framework to assess the quality of intervention studies
• Demonstrate an ability to differentiate between 'weak' and 'strong' elements of RCTs

Section 1 will enable you to define terms related to the critical appraisal process and utilise a rapid appraisal framework to assess the quality of intervention studies. This is a comparatively long section and you are advised to leave time for background reading if unfamiliar with the process of critical appraisal.