Empowering Evidence-Based Practice: Collaborating to Create Critically Appraised Topic (CAT) Groups

Abstract

This poster describes the collaborative development and transition of Critically Appraised Topic (CAT) groups within University Hospitals Birmingham (UHB) NHS Trust. Traditionally facilitated by Keele University, CAT groups empower healthcare professionals to critically evaluate research evidence for improved patient care. Recognising the value of CATs, UHB Libraries partnered with Keele to establish a sustainable, in-house program. The initial phase involved collaboration with Keele. Librarians delivered introductory sessions on evidence-based practice (EBP) and PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) framework. Working alongside healthcare teams, librarians assisted in formulating focused clinical questions using the PICO framework. Additionally, librarians provided guidance on completing literature search forms and conducting comprehensive searches using agreed-upon keywords and MeSH terms. The project's next step involves UHB Libraries assuming full responsibility for facilitating CAT sessions. This transition fosters cost-effectiveness for the Trust while fostering a deeper integration of library services into the EBP process. Librarians will leverage their expertise in EBP and information retrieval to guide healthcare professionals through all stages of the CAT process. This includes: Introductory Sessions: Librarians will introduce CAT methodology, highlighting its benefits for informing clinical decision-making. PICO Development: Interactive workshops will equip participants with skills to formulate well-structured clinical questions using the PICO framework. Literature Searching: Librarians will provide hands-on training on navigating relevant databases and developing efficient search strategies using pre-determined keywords. Critical Appraisal: Guidance will be offered on critically evaluating the methodological quality and clinical relevance of identified research articles. Synthesis and Implementation: Support will be provided in summarising findings, drawing conclusions, and identifying potential implications for practice. By assuming a leading role in facilitating CAT groups, UHB Libraries aim to achieve the following objectives: Empowerment: Equip healthcare professionals with the skills necessary to independently conduct CATs, fostering a culture of EBP within the Trust. Sustainability: Establish a self-sufficient CAT program within UHB, ensuring ongoing access to this valuable tool for evidence-informed practice. Cost-Effectiveness: Eliminate external facilitation costs, making CATs a more financially feasible approach for continuous improvement in patient care. Integration: Deepen the role of Library services within the Trust's EBP infrastructure, positioning librarians as key partners in knowledge translation and clinical decision-making. This collaborative initiative demonstrates the potential for library services to actively contribute to evidence-based healthcare. By empowering healthcare teams with CAT skills, UHB Libraries contribute to a culture of continuous learning and improved patient outcomes within the Trust.