Improving the quality of small RCTs nested in routine clinical practice

Abstract

Conducting small randomised controlled trials (RCTs) ‘nested’ in routine clinical practice is ideal for family practitioners, non-academics and young researchers, who often are required to complete a ‘small-scale’ research project for their master's (MMed) theses. These trials have the potential to produce good outcomes that could promptly change clinical practice and behaviour. In this paper, the author discusses the advantages and disadvantages of conducting RCTs nested in routine clinical practice, as well as ways of improving their quality.