“The search process needs to be documented in enough detail throughout the process to ensure that it can be reported correctly in the review, to the extent that all the searches of all the databases are reproducible.” (Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions)
3.4.1 Provide a line-by-line description of the search strategy, including the date of every search for each database, web browser, etc.
3.4.2 Document the disposition of each report identified including reasons for their exclusion if appropriate
-Title of database searched (e.g. MEDLINE)
- Name of the host (e.g. Ovid)
- Date search was run (month, day, year)
- Years covered by the search
- Limits such as language, age, etc.
PRISMA
PRISMA stands for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. It is an evidence-based minimum set of items for reporting in systematic reviews and meta-analyses focusing on randomized trials. But PRISMA can also be used as a basis for reporting systematic reviews of other types of research, particularly evaluations of interventions.
PRISMA Flow Diagram - The flow diagram depicts the flow of information through the different phases of a systematic review. Different templates are available, including PRISMA 2020 Flow Diagram.
EQUATOR
EQUATOR stands for Enhancing the QUAlity of Transparency Of health Research. The international network provides a comprehensive list of reporting guidelines for different types of studies. To investigate the reporting guidelines, go to the EQUATOR page.
MOOSE
MOOSE stands for Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology. The checklist contains specifications for reporting of meta-analyses of observational studies in epidemiology.
