In search of the evidence: informing effective practice

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Abstract
Despite the abundant journal literature the challenge for the health care professional is in retrieving clinically relevant information. Critical appraisal is a useful tool in meeting this challenge. This article examines the five stages of the critical appraisal process and the information implications associated with each stage. The role of health information workers, together with their training and development requirements, is also outlined. Clinicians and information workers need to work together to provide further evidence in support of the effectiveness of literature‐based approaches and their contribution to patient care.