Abstract
Pediatric clinicians strive to base their management decisions on best available evidence. In the quantitative research paradigm, the highest level of evidence is derived from a conclusive randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT). Currently, there are few adequately powered RCTs to support pediatric acute respiratory care, but this landscape is changing. We are all obligated to ensure the relevance of our research, to mentor junior investigators, and to support knowledge development in our field. This paper reviews the hurdles faced by clinical investigators in the field of pediatric critical care and offers suggestions for future clinical studies.
Footnotes
- Correspondence: Martha AQ Curley RN PhD, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Claire M Fagin Hall, 418 Curie Boulevard, Philadelphia PA 19104. E-mail: curley{at}nursing.upenn.edu.
Dr Curley presented a version of this paper at the 47th Respiratory Care Journal Conference, “Neonatal and Pediatric Respiratory Care: What Does the Future Hold?” held November 5–7, 2010, in Scottsdale, Arizona.
The author has disclosed no conflicts of interests.
- Copyright © 2011 by Daedalus Enterprises Inc.