Evidence-based Sources
The content in these resources focuses on synthesis, summary, guideline, and review evidence to support clinical decision making.
- BMJ Best Practice
Available to all medical students via your HEI-NHS OpenAthens username and password.
BMJ Best Practice, access information:
You will need to use your HEI-NHS username and password. Follow this guide for how to login and create an account. More information on access and access issues are available on the HEI-NHS page in Canvas under the library button. If you are in Phase two or three of the MBChB course you will be able to access via your placement Trust’s Library. If you are experiencing error messages when trying to access BMJ BP take a look at this guide.
The video below is an introduction to the BMJ Best Practice website and an overview of the key features.
- NICE | The National Institute for Health and Care ExcellenceNICE Homepage links through to the following key platforms: NICE Guidance: evidence-based recommendations for the health and social care; the British National Formulary (BNF): information on the selection, prescribing, dispensing and administration of medicines; & Clinical Knowledge Summaries (CKS): summaries of the current evidence base and practical advice on best practice.
- Cochrane Library
The Cochrane Library is a collection of databases that contain different types of high-quality, independent evidence to inform healthcare decision-making, including Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Cochrane Clinical Answers
Watch a short introduction to searching the Cochrane Library:
- Trip Medical DatabaseTrip is a clinical search engine to help you find high-quality research evidence to support practice and/or care. It also searches other content types including images, videos, patient information leaflets, educational courses and news. Free-to access website (pro features not available from the University, but are available from the NHS from Year 3. Ask your placement library for information about Trip Pro)
Watch a short introduction to TRIP Medical Database:
- SIGN GuidelinesGuidelines developed by the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network. SIGN produce evidence-based, collaboratively developed clinical guidelines. Free-to access website.
- NIHR EvidenceNIHR Evidence is a curated collection of healthcare research and resources, in order to enhance patient care through evidence-based insights. The website has links to the original studies and creates an additional plain English version. Good for practicing critical appraisal skills.