Reading Research: Details Matter

Topics: adverse events | control group | double blind | effect size | NNH | NNT | null hypothesis | number needed to harm | number needed to treat | Open Label | p-value | primary outcome | Randomized controlled trial | randomized discontinuation design | RCT | replication | secondary outcome | statistical significance | treatment efficacy | unblinded

When headlines report on positive treatment results from a study, families will come in asking about those results. This article will help you determine what makes a study a good one, and conversely what makes a not-so-great one. With this information, you can be better prepared to talk with families about research studies and results that can affect tr