07 - Systematic methods
Systematic methods were used to search for evidence.
User’s Manual Description:
Details of the strategy used to search for evidence should be provided including search terms used, sources consulted, and dates of the literature covered. Sources may include electronic databases (e.g. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL), databases of systematic reviews (e.g. the Cochrane Library, DARE), handsearching journals, reviewing conference proceedings, and other guidelines (e.g. the US National Guideline Clearinghouse, the German Guidelines Clearinghouse). The search strategy should be as comprehensive as possible and executed in a manner free from potential biases and sufficiently detailed to be replicated.
Where to Look:
Examine the paragraphs/chapters describing the guideline development process. In some cases the search strategies are described in separate documents or in an appendix to the guideline. Examples of commonly labelled sections or chapters in a guideline where this information can be found include: methods, literature search strategy, and appendices.
How to Rate:
Item content includes the following CRITERIA:
- named electronic database(s) or evidence source(s) where the search was performed (e.g., MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, CINAHL)
- time periods searched (e.g., January 1, 2004 to March 31, 2008)
- search terms used (e.g., text words, indexing terms, subheadings)
- full search strategy included (e.g., possibly located in appendix)
Additional CONSIDERATIONS:
- Is the item well written? Are the descriptions clear and concise?
- Is the item content easy to find in the guideline?
- Is the search relevant and appropriate to answer the health question? (e.g., all relevant databases and, appropriate search terms used)
- Is there enough information provided for anyone to replicate the search?
