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Related Concept Videos

The Scientific Method01:32

The Scientific Method

The scientific method is a detailed, empirical problem-solving process used by biologists and other scientists. This iterative approach involves formulating a question based on observation, developing a testable potential explanation for the observation (called a hypothesis), making and testing predictions based on the hypothesis, and using the findings to create new hypotheses and predictions.
Generally, predictions are tested using carefully-designed experiments. Based on the outcome of these...
The Scientific Method02:40

The Scientific Method

Research is what makes the difference between facts and opinions. Facts are observable realities, and opinions are personal judgments, conclusions, or attitudes that may or may not be accurate. In the scientific community, facts can be established only using evidence collected through empirical research.
The Scientific Method03:50

The Scientific Method

Chemistry is an empirical science. Scientists often pose questions to understand the chemistry in everyday life and seek answers to these questions. To achieve this, scientists follow a definitive series of steps that together make up the Scientific Method. This approach involves making observations, asking questions, building a hypothesis, conducting experiments, analyzing results, and forming a conclusion.
The Scientific Method in Nursing Process01:18

The Scientific Method in Nursing Process

The scientific method provides the foundation for any research. It is the most reliable and objective of all forms of gaining knowledge and guides in applying research-based evidence in practice and conducting future research.
When using research findings to change practice, one must understand the process used to guide a study. The scientific method is a systematic, step-by-step process that supports the data's validity, reliability, and generalizability. As a result, findings can be safely...
Drug Regulation01:25

Drug Regulation

Drug regulation encompasses the management of drug usage by evaluating its safety and efficacy through assessments conducted by regulatory authorities. Regrettably, the history of drug regulation is marred by several catastrophic events. One such incident is the Elixir Sulfanilamide tragedy, in which the toxic compound diethyl glycol was included in a sweet-tasting medication, leading to numerous fatalities. This event prompted the enactment of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act in 1938. Under...
Clinical Trials01:16

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are prospective experimental studies conducted on humans to determine the safety and efficacy of treatments, drugs, diet methods, and medical devices. Using statistics in clinical trials enables researchers to derive reasonable and accurate conclusions from the collected data, allowing them to make wise decisions in uncertain situations. In medical research, statistical methods are crucial for preventing errors and bias.
There are four phases in a clinical trial. A phase one...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 10, 2026

Evidence-based Knowledge Synthesis and Hypothesis Validation: Navigating Biomedical Knowledge Bases via Explainable AI and Agentic Systems
05:47

Evidence-based Knowledge Synthesis and Hypothesis Validation: Navigating Biomedical Knowledge Bases via Explainable AI and Agentic Systems

Published on: June 13, 2025

Evidence-based medicine - are we boiling the frog?

D J J Muckart1

  • 1Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa. davidmuc@ialch.co.za

South African Medical Journal = Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Geneeskunde
|June 27, 2013
PubMed
Summary

Evidence-based medicine (EBM) relies on evidence that may be biased or not clinically relevant. Blind adherence to population-based data can harm individual patients, underscoring the need for clinical judgment.

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: May 10, 2026

Evidence-based Knowledge Synthesis and Hypothesis Validation: Navigating Biomedical Knowledge Bases via Explainable AI and Agentic Systems
05:47

Evidence-based Knowledge Synthesis and Hypothesis Validation: Navigating Biomedical Knowledge Bases via Explainable AI and Agentic Systems

Published on: June 13, 2025

Area of Science:

  • Medical research methodology
  • Clinical decision-making

Background:

  • Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is defined as the careful use of current best evidence for patient care.
  • This definition assumes the evidence is optimal and universally applicable.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically evaluate the assumptions underlying evidence-based medicine.
  • To highlight potential limitations and risks associated with the strict application of EBM principles.

Main Methods:

  • Critical analysis of the definition and assumptions of evidence-based medicine.
  • Examination of factors influencing published medical evidence, including bias and sponsorship.
  • Discussion of the applicability of population-based evidence to individual patients.

Main Results:

  • Published evidence can be influenced by bias, sponsorship, and non-clinically relevant mathematical probabilities.
  • Population-based evidence may not be suitable for all individual patients, potentially causing harm.
  • Over-reliance on data can neglect essential clinical experience and judgment.

Conclusions:

  • The "best evidence" in EBM is not always reliable or relevant.
  • Blind adherence to EBM can be detrimental to patient care.
  • Clinical experience and judgment remain crucial components of medical practice, acknowledging medicine's inherent uncertainty.