The core of evidence synthesis is the systematic review of literature on a particular intervention, condition: Evidence Based Practice Assignment, UoA, Singapore

The core of evidence synthesis is the systematic review of literature on a particular intervention, condition, or issue. The systematic review is essentially an analysis of the available literature (that is, evidence) and a judgment of the effectiveness or otherwise of practice, involving a series of complex steps. JBI takes a particular view on what counts as evidence and the methods utilized to synthesize those different types of evidence.

In line with this broader view of the evidence, JBI has developed theories, methodologies, and rigorous processes for the critical appraisal and synthesis of these diverse forms of evidence in order to aid in clinical decision-making in healthcare. There now exists JBI guidance for conducting reviews of effectiveness research, qualitative research, prevalence/incidence, etiology/risk, economic evaluations, text/opinion, diagnostic test accuracy, mixed methods, umbrella reviews, and scoping reviews. Further information regarding JBI systematic reviews can be found in the JBI Evidence Synthesis Manual.

JBI Critical Appraisal Tools

All systematic reviews incorporate a process of critique or appraisal of the research evidence. The purpose of this appraisal is to assess the methodological quality of a study and to determine the extent to which a study has addressed the possibility of bias in its design, conduct, and analysis. All papers selected for inclusion in the systematic review need to be subjected to rigorous appraisal by two critical appraisers.

The results of this appraisal can then be used to inform the synthesis and interpretation of the results of the study. JBI Critical appraisal tools have been developed by the JBI and collaborators and approved by the JBI Scientific Committee following extensive peer review. Although designed for use in systematic reviews, JBI critical appraisal tools can also be used when creating Critically Appraised Topics, in journal clubs, and as an educational tool.