Mete-analysts establish a systematic search strategy after determining which criteria?

A systematic search strategy in meta-analysis is designed to identify relevant studies that meet specific standards for inclusion in the review. Inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria are essential components in this process. Inclusion criteria refer to the specific characteristics that studies must have to be included in the meta-analysis, such as the population studied, the type of intervention, the study design, and the outcomes measured. Exclusion criteria, on the other hand, establish the characteristics that would disqualify a study from being included, which could be based on factors like study quality, sample size, or irrelevant outcomes.

By clearly defining these criteria, meta-analysts can ensure that they compile a robust and relevant set of studies, leading to more reliable and valid conclusions about the overall effects being investigated. Properly established inclusion and exclusion criteria facilitate a structured approach to the literature search, enabling researchers to find applicable studies while avoiding those that do not fit their predefined parameters. This rigor in the selection process is crucial for the integrity and quality of the meta-analysis.