What is critical appraisal?
Critical appraisal is an essential step in systematic reviews. It is a process of careful and systematic examination of research to judge its trustworthiness, value and relevance in a particular context (Burls, 2009).
Literature must be critically appraised to ensure the findings of the included articles are reliable, valid and without inherent bias. This is done by assessing the research process and results.
Studies are assessed in regard to the strength of the research design, how well the research was executed, the size of the effect and the relevance outcomes.To support consistency in the appraisal process a number of checklists have been develop as well as information hierarchies.
The information hierarchy pyramid
An information hierarchy pyramid is a graphical representing of the strength of different types of study design (Ingham-Broomfield, 2016). To ensure quality of information, evidence is selected and assessed by moving from the top of the pyramid downwards.The higher the evidence type the more robust the study design. All studies should also be assessed in regard to how well they adhere to the requirements of the expectations of the particular study design (Murad, Asi, Alsawas & Alahdab 2016).
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Critical appraisal tools
Checklists and appraisal tools can be used to promote consistency in appraisal by collaborating reviewers.Using a nominated checklist or appraisal tool also enhancing the transparency of the review process.