Journal Club Summary
Methodology Score: 3/5
Usefulness Score: 2/5
Abas MN, Tan PC, Azmi N, Omar SZ. Obstet Gynecol. 2014 Jun;123(6):1272-9.
This small RCT found that ondansetron was not superior in efficacy to metaclopramide for patients with hyperemesis gravidarum. Although ondansetron seemed better tolerated by patients, the clinical significance of the documented adverse effects of metoclopramide were questioned by JC attendees. With the stronger fetal safety profile of metaclopramide, its use in hyperemesis gravidarum should still be considered before ondansetron.
By: Dr. Jean Christophe Ghazal
(Presented February 2015)
Epi Lesson: Validity of Visual Analogue Scales
Visual Analogue Scales (VAS) are assessment tools frequently used to determine the degree of symptoms experienced by patients. When you see a study using a VAS, it is important to ask whether the tool has been validated. This can occur by comparing the tool to existing tools or to another reference gold standard. This important step re-assures the reader that the VAS is measuring what it intends to measure.
By: Dr. Lisa Calder