Evidence Summaries: The Evolution of a Rapid Review Approach

Khangura, S., Konnyu, K., Cushman, R., Grimshaw, J. & Moher, D. (2012). Evidence summaries: The evolution of a rapid review approach. Systematic Reviews, 1(10). https://doi.org/10.1186/2046-4053-1-10.

Canadian Journal article

Description

This method outlines an approach to creating and sharing rapid reviews for decision-makers and end users. The evidence summaries created using this method can be used to:

  • serve as a briefing note to inform stakeholders on an issue
  • support decision making for policies and programs
  • support the development of policies and programs

Steps for Using Method/Tool

The method guides users through eight components of an evidence summary:

  1. Conduct a needs assessment.
  2. Develop and refine the evidence question.
  3. Construct the proposal development and obtain approval.
  4. Conduct a systematic literature search.
  5. Screen and select studies.
  6. Complete a narrative synthesis of studies.
  7. Write the report.
  8. Communicate with knowledge users.

These summaries are written by the NCCMT to condense and to provide an overview of the resources listed in the Registry of Methods and Tools and to give suggestions for their use in a public health context. For more information on individual methods and tools included in the review, please consult the authors/developers of the original resources.

We have provided the resources and links as a convenience and for informational purposes only; they do not constitute an endorsement or an approval by McMaster University of any of the products, services or opinions of the external organizations, nor have the external organizations endorsed their resources and links as provided by McMaster University. McMaster University bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality or content of the external sites.

Have you used this resource? Share your story!