What are Evidence-Based Resources?

Evidence-based resources are comprised of research studies and randomized controlled trials, critically appraised topics and articles, and systematic reviews that are used directly in the creation of clinical practice guidelines.  

The evidence pyramid depicts the theoretical level of the quality of evidence for each type of resource.

Image of the Evidence Pyramid. Depicts the theoretical hierarchy of quality in information types as they pertain to evidence based medicine. The highest in the hierarchy are Clinical Practice Guidelines. Second in the hierarchy are Systematic Reviews. Third in the hierarchy are Critically-Appraised Topics [Evidence Syntheses]. Fourth in the hierarchy are Critically-Appraised Individual Articles [Article Synopses]. Fifth in the hierarchy are Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). Sixth in the hierarchy are Cohort Studies. Seventh in the hierarchy are Case-Controlled Studies and Case Series / Reports. Eighth, and lowest in the hierarchy, are Background Information and Expert Opinions.