Database selection and data gathering methods in systematic reviews of qualitative research regarding diabetes mellitus - an explorative study

Abstract Background Systematic reviews (SRs) are considered one of the most reliable types studies in evidence-based medicine. SRs rely on a comprehensive and systematic data gathering, including search academic literature databases. This study aimed to investigate which combination databases would result highest overall recall rate references when conducting qualitative research regarding diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, we current use other sources for collection. Methods Twenty-six (published between 2010 2020) mellitus, located through PubMed, met inclusion criteria. References were systematically hand searched six CINAHL, MEDLINE/PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, Web Science, Scopus engine Google Scholar. Recall rates calculated using total number included retrieved by database or divided references, given percentage. Results The five average (range two nine). MEDLINE/PubMed was commonly (100% SRs). In addition databases, 18 26 (69%) reference lists articles. technique resulted median (IQR) 2.5 (one six) more being per SR than searches alone. 27 (5.4%) found only (when Scholar excluded), with CINAHL retrieving unique ( n = 15). combinations (96.4%) Embase (98.8%) yielded rates, excluded. Conclusions We that However, corresponding expected perform comparably. can be useful supplement traditional scientific ensure an optimal retrieval relevant references.