Abstract: Asks what is the value of randomised ccontrolled trials (RCT), and argues that different trial designs are appropriate for different types of question, e.g. intervention, aetiology, diagnosis, prognosis, therapy, and experience. Backgrounds the formation of the Cochrane Collaboration. Relates the author's own experience in becoming a clinical triallist and considers the barriers to nurses running RCTs. Explains the need and intent of the Australasian Nursing and Midwifery Clinical Trials Network (ANMCTN)