A systematic review attempts to collate all the empirical evidence that fits pre-specified eligibility criteria in order to answer a specific research question. It uses explicit, systematic methods that are selected with a view to minimizing bias, thus providing more reliable findings from which conclusions can be drawn and decisions made.
What are systematic reviews? (Cochrane)
Key characteristics of a systematic review
- the a priori specification of a research question
- a clearly stated set of objectives with pre-defined eligibility criteria for studies
- an explicit, reproducible methodology
- a systematic search that attempts to identify all studies that would meet the eligibility criteria
- an assessment of the validity of the findings of the included studies, for example through the assessment of risk of bias
- a systematic presentation, and synthesis, of the characteristics and findings of the included studies
They are usually considered to be the highest level of evidence in evidence-based practice.
Librarian involvement in systematic reviews is a practice recommendation by the Institute of Medicine and leading sources of evidence-based information including Cochrane and the Joanna Briggs Institute.
As part of your systematic review project team, HNE Health librarians
- Design a comprehensive search strategy that complies with best practices and current systematic review standards
- Translate search strategies across multiple resources
- Provide search results using citation management software, such as EndNote
- Write the complete search methodology that can be included in the final systematic review manuscript according to PRISMA guideline
- Provide the PRISMA flow diagram
Contact us to request a consultation.
Education
Systematic Review Course (HETI and HNE Health Libraries). 10 sessions step participants through the process of conducting a systematic review. Intended for clinician and health service researchers but suitable for higher degree students.
UoN Systematic Review Guide
Useful resources