Meta-Analyses
ANSWERS
A quantitative, formal epidemiological study design known as a “meta-analysis” is used to quantitatively and methodically evaluate prior research studies to conclude that body of knowledge. Results from a meta-analysis may be more accurate estimates of the impact of a treatment, a disease risk factor, or other outcomes than those from any study that contributed to the pooled analysis. Another crucial result is the analysis of the study results variability or heterogeneity. A comprehensive and quantitative review of a significant, frequently complex, and occasionally seemingly contradictory body of literature is one of the advantages of meta-analysis. A sensitive literature search and the specification of the outcome and tested hypotheses are essential to executing meta-analyses. There are techniques for looking at data to identify the potential for studies to be missing, for instance, by using funnel plots. However, failing to identify the majority of existing studies can result in incorrect conclusions. Meta-analyses that are carefully carried out are helpful tools in evidence-based medicine. Combining the results of numerous studies ensures that meta-analytic research is desirable, and the abundance of research that has since been produced makes it possible to conduct this research.
Meta-Analyses
QUESTION
Meta-Analyses
n epidemiology, meta-analyses are becoming a common research design. They are also “the most frequently cited form of clinical research,” and as such are an important type of study for the advanced practice nurse to be familiar with (Haidich, 2010).
For this Assignment, you will analyze a meta-analysis article and consider the implications of this research design for nursing practice, building on this week’s Discussion.
Reference:
Haidich, A. B. (2010). Meta-analysis in medical research. Hippokratia, 14(Suppl. 1), 29–37. https://www.hippokratia.gr/images/PDF/14Sup1/699.pdf
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To prepare:
- Using the Walden Library, locate a peer-reviewed article that utilizes a meta-analysis design and examines a population health topic that interests you. Your article must be a meta-analysis specifically, not just a systematic review.
The Assignment:
In 2–3 pages, not including title page and references, address the following:
- Identify your selected article. Explain what characteristics make this a meta-analysis.
- Were the inclusion and exclusion criteria clearly stated? How were the articles that were included selected? Do you agree with the researchers’ approach? Explain why or why not.
- Do you agree with the conclusions? Explain why or why not.
- Explain how you could apply implications from the study to your nursing practice.