RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIALS

As mentioned earlier, Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) are considered the "gold standard" of care. An efficient and effective way to begin your search is to attempt to identify RCTs. This approach guarantees that the retrieved literature is relevant and represents the "best evidence" available. To quickly find evidence, try searching for RCTs. Limit your search to the publication type, "Randomized Controlled Trials".

To find randomized controlled trials in MEDLINE, follow these instructions:

  1. Enter the MEDLINE database.
  2. Conduct your subject search.
  3. Limit the set to the RCT publication type.

Let's take a look at this process in BUMC MEDLINE Plus/OVID.....