A systematic review (SR) is a comprehensive, team-based research process that captures all available, empirical evidence from the current literature fitting specified criteria in order to answer a focused research question. Finding research studies involves the use of multiple databases and other searching methods, such as hand searching, searching grey literature, and other sources.
Before beginning a systematic review, researchers perform tasks such as determining the inclusion/exclusion criteria (i.e. what types of articles/studies will be included for comparisons and data extraction) and the development of a protocol where decisions are made about how studies will be assessed for quality, tools that will be utilized, and what data will be extracted. Because systematic reviews utilize explicit, systematic methods, when performed properly, SRs minimize bias, provide reliable and often actionable findings, and bolster decision-making for clinicians.
There are a number of research projects that assist in synthesis and interpretation of evidence, so Systematic Reviews are not the only option!
Not all research questions are appropriate for a systematic review. Additionally, if researchers face limitations including time constraints or not having enough team members to perform a full systematic review, other options for additional research studies that still provide a fairly comprehensive understanding of the current evidence around a research question include:
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