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Methodological Rigor and Integrity of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses From Nursing-Affiliated Institutions in
Nassima Bouzar1, Aya Ikhelk1, Abdelmounaim Manoussi1
1Faculty of Medical Sciences, UM6P Hospitals University Mohammed VI Polytechnic Ben Guerir Morocco.
Cochrane Evidence Synthesis and Methods
|August 4, 2026
Summary
This meta-research found methodological and integrity issues in North African nursing systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs). Improving quality is crucial for evidence-based practice.
Area of Science:
- Nursing research
- Evidence-based practice
- Meta-research
Background:
- Growing volume of systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) from North Africa (NA).
- Lack of empirical assessment of methodological quality and reporting in NA nursing SRs/MAs.
- Need to evaluate research integrity indicators in this context.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the methodological quality, reporting practices, and scientific integrity of SRs and MAs from NA nursing institutions.
- To identify deficiencies and areas for improvement in the production of SRs/MAs in the region.
Main Methods:
- Meta-research synthesis of SRs and MAs in nursing sciences published 2015-2025 from PubMed.
- Inclusion criteria: explicit SR/MA methods, first/last author affiliated with NA institution.
- Quality assessment using PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines, plus a composite score; explored associations with review characteristics.
Main Results:
- 38 SRs/MAs included; 15 with quantitative synthesis.
- Only 50% reported PROSPERO registration; some inaccurate.
- Modest overall methodological quality; PROSPERO registration linked to higher scores (p=0.008).
- Inconsistent reporting of dual data extraction, gray literature searches, sensitivity analyses, and publication bias assessments.
Conclusions:
- Significant methodological and integrity deficiencies identified in NA nursing SRs and MAs.
- Strengthening methodological expertise is critical for advancing evidence-based practice in the region.
- Addressing reporting inconsistencies and improving research integrity are key priorities.
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