Determining Levels of Evidence:
Many times, you can determine the level of evidence by finding it in the article’s TITLE or in the METHODS section of the paper.

TITLE EXAMPLE:
Practice nurse-led proactive care for chronic depression in primary care: A randomized controlled trial

METHODS EXAMPLES:
Research Design: The study used a quasi-experimental pre-intervention/ post-intervention design.

• Methods: We conducted a multicenter qualitative study.
• Methods: A descriptive survey was conducted.

Second, appraise each piece of evidence using the APPRAISAL TOOLS found in Appendices A and/or B found in the EBP Tool Kit Link. These tools will help you to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence, as well as gaps. Definitions for the levels of evidence and qualities of evidence can be found below the pyramid.

Finally, compile all pieces of evidence in the EVIDENCE SUMMARY TOOL found in Appendix D from the EBP Tool Kit Link. This tool will help you to identify recommendations for practice change.