This book is intended to assist pediatricians discuss pertinent research findings that relate to the care of children with parents. It provides an overview of research practices and terminology and offers a framework through which physicians can discuss their reasons for specific clinical recommendations, clarify misconceptions about research studies and findings, and explain the limitations of research when applied to medical decision making. With the proliferation of research studies posted online, media outlets scrambling to pick up stories, and individuals posting unverified information via social media, the landscape for parents trying to understand the latest research as it pertains to their children has never been more challenging to navigate.
This book examines the broad research concepts that comprise research literacy, such as study design and statistical versus clinical significance of findings, and reviews the current research in topics that pediatricians report discussing most often with parents, such as vaccines, diet, medications, and sleep patterns. Pediatrician’s Guide to Discussing Research with Patients is a unique resource for pediatricians in encouraging the development of research literacy in their patients.