Locating and Appraising Systematic Reviews

  1. Dereck L. Hunt, MD; and
  2. K. Ann McKibbon, MLS

    Abstract

    In this article, we describe the strengths and weaknesses of several methods of locating systematic reviews, including electronic databases such as MEDLINE, Best Evidence (the electronic version of ACP Journal Club and Evidence-Based Medicine), and the Cochrane Library (a regularly updated source of reviews and controlled trials produced by the Cochrane Collaboration). We also present steps that can be used to critically appraise review articles; as an example, we use a systematic review that evaluates the gastrointestinal toxicity of various nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the context of a clinical scenario.

    « Previous | Next Article »Table of Contents

    This Article

    1. Ann Intern Med April 1, 1997 vol. 126 no. 7 532-538
    1. » Abstract
    2. Full Text
    3. Full Text (PDF)

    Rapid Responses

    1. Submit a response
    2. No responses published

    Current Issue

    1. November 17, 2009, 151 (10)
    1. Alert me to current issues