Poor description of non-pharmacological interventions: analysis of consecutive sample of randomised trials.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

To evaluate the completeness of descriptions of non-pharmacological interventions in randomised trials, identify which elements are most frequently missing, and assess whether authors can provide missing details.

Design

Analysis of consecutive sample of randomised trials of non-pharmacological interventions.

Data sources and study selection

All reports of randomised trials of non-pharmacological interventions published in 2009 in six leading general medical journals; 133 trial reports, with 137 interventions, met the inclusion criteria.

Data collection

Using an eight item checklist, two raters assessed the primary full trial report, plus any reference materials, appendices, or websites. Questions about missing details were emailed to corresponding au

SUBMITTER: Hoffmann TC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3768250 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature