EBVM: a quick guide to evaluating veterinary evidence

Abstract

The ability to evaluate evidence is a key skill for veterinary professionals pursuing an evidence-based approach to patient care. The evidence available on a particular topic in the veterinary field may be of variable quality though and the strengths and weaknesses of the type of evidence should be considered. The way a research study is conducted can also impact on the validity and reliability of the results presented and aspects of study design, such as control groups, representative samples, sample size, elimination of bias and outcome measures, should be evaluated. This article gives further insight into the evaluation of research studies including examples to aid understanding.