Classification of Reports1
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Primary Reports
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Secondary Reports
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A
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Randomized controlled trial (RCT)
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M
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Meta-analysis or Systematic review
Decision analysis
Cost-benefit analysis
Cost-effectiveness study
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B
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Cohort study
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C
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Nonrandomized trial with concurrent or historical controls
Case-control study
Study of sensitivity and specificity of a diagnostic test
Time series
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R
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Narrative review (Review article)
Consensus statement
Consensus report
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D
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Cross-sectional study
Trend Study
Case series
Case report
Before and after study
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X
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Medical opinion
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Classifying studies and reports gives an initial picture of the type of studies and level of evidence available. It also helps organize the reports for critical appraisal. Once the study design is identified and classified, this classification is then recorded on the article's worksheet template.
1Adapted by the American Dietetic Association from ©Joint Commission Resources: "A Practical Approach to Evidence Grading." Joint Commission Journal on Quality Improvement 2000:Volume 26(12):707
