Year: 2026
Type: book-chapter
Abstract: Introduction: Critical appraisal is an essential skill for contemporary medical practice, given the exponential growth of scientific literature and the variability in the methodological quality of research.Its application allows for the systematic evaluation of the validity, clinical relevance, and applicability of evidence, promoting decisions based on the principles of Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) and aimed at optimizing patient safety.Development: This chapter uses a clinical case to illustrate how the critical interpretation of a study prevents decisions based on insufficient or biased evidence.Emphasis is placed on evaluating the methodological design, the magnitude of the effect, conflicts of interest, and the applicability of the results.It also integrates the responsible use of artificial intelligence as a support tool, without replacing clinical judgment or scientific reasoning.Conclusions: Critical appraisal transcends the analysis of scientific articles, becoming a reflective process that strengthens clinical judgment, promotes safe therapeutic decisions, and fosters a culture of continuous learning.In an environment of increasing scientific output and technological development, mastery of this skill is an indispensable requirement for practicing ethical, rigorous, and patient-centered medicine, ensuring that clinical practice is based on solid and clinically relevant evidence.
Language: Spanish
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W7214903221