Critical evaluation: Learning outcomes
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After completing this tutorial, you will be able to:
- Assess the validity and usefulness of clinical trials.
- Describe the meaning of some common terms used to quantify the benefits and harms of a medicine.
- Outline how evidence from clinical trials is evaluated and applied by NHS prescribing committees.
You can download a PDF of the whole tutorial (without interactive elements such as Learning Exercises).

Competencies
This tutorial is aimed at hospital pre-registration pharmacists, and will help you achieve GPhC standards such as these:- A1.6 Make decisions which demonstrate clear and logical thought
- A3.3 Select the best solution, based on sound analysis and appropriate evidence
- A4.6 Base your actions, advice and decisions on evidence
- A4.7 Obtain and process the evidence you need to meet A4.6
- C2.1 Provide considered and correct answers to queries, founded on research-based evidence
If you are a foundation pharmacist, this tutorial may help you meet competencies from the RPS framework including:
- 3.1 Gathering information (accesses information, up-to-date information)
- 3.3 Analysing information (Appropriately identifies problems, synthesises and analyses information, logical approach, displays critical thinking, appraises options, decision making)
Continuing professional development
Finally, here are some CPD activities you could consider:

★ Find out about the formulary application process in your Trust. Who can apply for a medicine to be added to the formulary? What happens after a medicine is approved? How is this information shared and who needs to know?
★ Shadow your critical evaluation pharmacist at a formulary committee or area prescribing committee meeting. Reflect upon the committee's decision making processes.