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Which PubMed Clinical Queries option should you begin with to find the highest levels of evidence?

A. Clinical Study Categories: Therapy and Broad scope
B. Clinical Study Categories: Therapy and Narrow scope
C. Systematic Reviews.
D. Medical Genetics Searches.
E. A and B

User Matsjoyce
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Final answer:

The highest levels of evidence in PubMed Clinical Queries can be found by selecting option C. Systematic Reviews, as they provide comprehensive summaries of high-quality studies and often include meta-analyses. Option C is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

To find the highest levels of evidence in PubMed Clinical Queries, you should begin with option C. Systematic Reviews. Systematic reviews summarize the results of high-quality studies on a particular topic, and they usually include meta-analyses that statistically combine results from multiple studies to produce a more comprehensive conclusion.

These are often considered to provide a high level of evidence because they involve a rigorous and methodical appraisal of existing research.

In contrast, the Clinical Study Categories of Therapy, whether Broad or Narrow scope (options A, B, and E), filter primary research articles that may vary in quality and level of evidence.

Medical Genetics Searches (option D) focuses strictly on genetic studies, which might not be the best source for the highest level of evidence on therapeutic interventions unless the query is specifically targeting genetic conditions or treatments.

When performing clinical research or developing a clinical question, it is vitally important to use reliable sources to come to a well-evidenced conclusion or to form a preliminary diagnosis. Prior to committing to a recommended treatment based on preliminary diagnosis, it is essential to make sure that the diagnosis has been made by reviewing strong evidence which could include additional tests if necessary.

User Orionpax
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