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A process model for evidence-based literature syntheses.
Dana N Rutledge1, Judith A DePalma, Mary Cunningham
1California State University, Fullerton, CA, USA. drutledge1@cox.net
Oncology Nursing Forum
|May 18, 2004
Summary
The Triad Model of Research Synthesis efficiently produces systematic literature reviews for healthcare decision-making. This resource-intensive process requires careful planning and adequate resources for successful implementation.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Evidence-Based Practice
- Systematic Review Methodology
Background:
- Healthcare decision-making relies on synthesized evidence.
- Systematic literature reviews are crucial for evidence-based practice.
- Existing methods for research synthesis may be time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the development and implementation of the Triad Model of Research Synthesis.
- To establish a mechanism for producing systematic literature reviews.
- To provide evidence for healthcare decision-making.
Main Methods:
- The Triad Model involves four key steps: organizing, searching, critiquing, synthesizing, and writing the literature.
- Development and implementation were tracked over one year (2002) using author recollections and team tracking forms.
- Three triad teams synthesized research on dyspnea treatment, cancer sleep disturbances, and cancer-related fatigue.
Main Results:
- The Triad Model systematically guides the research synthesis process.
- Triad team members dedicated significant time, equivalent to full-time work, to synthesis projects.
- Time allocation varied by team member role and synthesis phase.
Conclusions:
- The Triad Model is a productive, albeit resource-intensive, method for systematic reviews.
- Adequate resource negotiation is essential before initiating a synthesis project.
- The model is effective for developing evidence-based care guidelines when sufficient resources and motivated personnel are available.