2.2 Gathering and Appraising Evidence

Question 1

Evidence Hierarchy

Answer 1

• Ranks evidence strength based on method design of the study such as from randomized controlled studies, case reports, expert papers based on experiential evidence.

Question 2

Systematic (synthesis) Reviews

Answer 2

• “Synthesis Literature”
• Synthesis means to combine elements into a single complex entity
• Differs from literature review. It is not just a descriptive summary of studies but it is an analysis and critical appraisal of the literature

Question 3

TYPES OF SYSTEMATIC (SYNTHESIS) REVIEWS

Question 4

Meta-Analysis

Answer 4

• Synthesis of quantitative studies with statistical analysis
• Used to determine the impact of studies
• All studies are treated as one big data set for statistical analysis

Cochrane - Largest repository (databank) for meta-analyses

Question 5

Systematic Review

Answer 5

• Summation and Assessment of quantitative research studies based on a focused question
• Uses systematic criteria to appraise and analyze relevant data

Question 6

Integrative Review

Answer 6

• Synthesis of qualitative, quantitative and expert opinion without statistical analysis

Question 7

Meta-Synthesis

Answer 7

• Interpretive synthesis of multiple qualitative studies that offer integrated interpretation of study findings.

Question 8

Scoping Review

Answer 8

• Summary of existing literature on a topic including quantitative, qualitative, and expert opinion.
• Used for new topics that are rapidly evolving.

Question 9

PRISMA CRITERIA

Answer 9

• Required for all systematic review methodologies when gathering/appraising literature.

INCLUDES
- Title
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Methods
- Results
- Discussion

Question 10

Clinical Practice Guidelines

Answer 10

• Systematically developed statements/recommendations that link research to practice and serve as a guide for practitioners.
• Developed by organizations, government agencies, institutions, and expert panels.
• Formed from evidence and scientific process
• If sufficient research base is unavailable, nationally known experts convene to offer expert opinion with available evidence.

Question 11

AGREE II (Appraisal Guide for Guidelines Research and Evaluation II)

Answer 11

• Used to help nurses critically appraise clinical practice guidelines

COMPONENTS ASSESSED IN CLINICAL GUIDELINE
- Scope/Purpose of guideline
- Stakeholder involvement
- Rigor of the guideline development
- Clarity/presentation of the guideline
- Applicability of the guideline to practice
- Demonstrated editorial independence of the developer