What are the steps in conducting a systematic review?

What are the steps in conducting a systematic review?

Conducting a systematic review involves several key steps: defining a research question, developing a protocol, conducting a comprehensive literature search, selecting studies, extracting data, and synthesizing findings.

Can you explain the importance of a protocol in this process?

A protocol is crucial as it outlines the review's objectives, methods, and criteria for study selection, ensuring transparency and reducing bias.

How do I conduct a comprehensive literature search?

To conduct a comprehensive literature search, use multiple databases, define search terms clearly, and consider both published and unpublished studies.

What should I do if I find conflicting results in the studies?

If you find conflicting results, analyze the quality of the studies, consider the context of the findings, and perform a sensitivity analysis to understand the impact of different studies on your overall conclusions.

Can you summarize the data extraction process?

Data extraction involves systematically collecting relevant information from each study, such as study design, sample size, outcomes, and key findings, often using a standardized form.