EVIDENCE BASED CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE - WHAT IS IT AND WHAT CAN IT DOFOR US

Objective: To describe the philosophy and approach to patient care cal led evidence based medicine, and to highlight how it can enhance the p ractice of intensive care. Data Sources: We searched MEDLINE, referenc e lists, and our personal files to identify relevant literature. Study Selection: Articles on intensive care practice, critical appraisal, c linical research, and healthcare delivery were selected for discussion . Data Synthesis: We summarize the rationale for evidence based medici ne, its applications and future developments, and suggest several meth ods for intensivists to use evidence based medicine in their practice and teaching. Conclusions: Evidence based medicine can complement othe r foundation disciplines in intensive care. This is the first article in a series entitled ''Evidence Based Critical Care Medicine'' which w ill demonstrate how this approach can be used at the bedside.