[Importance of using basic statistics adequately in clinical research]

Abstract

Background and objective: The inadequate use of basic statistics is the main responsible for scientific article misinterpretation. The purpose of this review article was to review some basic statistical topics to alert authors and readers about the importance of basic statistics proper reporting.

Content: A bibliographical and cross-sectional study was carried out,which analyzed publications in books and articles in the following databases: SciELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online) and PubMed (Available from the National Center for Biotechnology Information). Medical research is not free from the risk of false positive and false negative results due to the choice of statistical tests and presence of small sample sizes.

Conclusion: Understanding the correct use of basic statistics leads to fewer errors in reporting the results of studies performed and in the interpretation of their conclusions.

Keywords: Anestesia; Anesthesia; Bioestatística; Biostatistics; Sample size; Tamanho da amostra.