1) The document discusses evaluating medical literature to answer a clinical question about whether duct tape is an effective treatment for warts in children. 2) A randomized controlled trial studied 61 patients comparing duct tape to cryotherapy treatment for common warts. It found that duct tape was significantly more effective, with an absolute risk reduction of 25%. 3) Key points to evaluate in studies include similarity of patients, interventions and outcomes measured, study design, results, and statistics reported like absolute risk reduction and number needed to treat.

1. Evaluating the Medical Literature Clista Clanton, MSLS, AHIP January 2009

2. Haynes, RB. ACPJC Nov/Dec 2006;145(3):A8-9 Start at the top and work your way down.

3. Computer system Clinical Evidence or PIER (UpToDate) ACP Journal Club, InfoPOEMS, Dynamed Cochrane Library, PubMED Clinical Queries, BMJUpdates, guidelines Original Studies

4. Original Studies If an original study is your only option…….

21. Best Type of Study for Your Question Type of Question Suggested Best Type of Study Therapy RCT > cohort > case control > case series Diagnosis Prospective, blind comparison to gold standard Etiology / Harm RCT > cohort > case control > case series Prognosis Cohort study > case control > case series Prevention RCT > cohort study > case control > case series Clinical Exam Prospective, blind comparison to gold standard Cost Economic analysis Questions of therapy, etiology and prevention which can best be answered by RCT can also be answered by a meta-analysis or systematic review.