Evidence Synthesis Ireland

Priority III Question 8

8

What are the best approaches for developing a search strategy for use in a rapid review, and what is the impact of applying restrictions (e.g., years of inclusion, language, phase of study)?

  • “How to optimise the search process for rapid reviews for the best combination of specificity and sensitivity?”
  • “Are there guidelines available about how extensive the search process should be?”
  • “What evidence exists to suggest that only including studies from a specific language range is appropriate to the wider claims of a rapid review?”
  • “How can we ensure, with a more limited search, that important studies and research aren’t omitted?”