The misunderstood P-value: why statistical significance is not enough in clinical practice.

Ahmed, Ebadullah S; Butt, Mohsin N · Br J Anaesth · 2025

other · Level V

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Abstract

P-values have traditionally guided clinical research, but over-reliance on them can lead to misinterpretation and poor decision-making. This article highlights common misconceptions about P-values and suggests incorporating the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) along with other metrics such as effect sizes and Bayesian methods. Evidence-based practice is essential in anaesthesiology, and research findings should be evaluated in the context of patient outcomes to guide clinical decisions.

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