Level of synthesis

Levels of Evidence

Type of Evidence for Each Level

Definition

Level I

Systematic or Meta-Analysis

A systematic analysis is the summary of empirical evidence that is defined by specific criteria. A meta-analysis uses statistical concepts to summarize the study results.

Level II

Randomized Control Trials (RCT)

A randomized control trial uses two groups to compare results, an experimental group and a control group. Participants are randomly assigned to these groups.

Level III

Quantitative Study

A quantitative study is based in the use of quantitative data with statistical analysis of results.

Level IV

Qualitative Study

A qualitative study explores the human perspective using narrative and observational data and employs qualitative methods for the analysis of results.

Level V

Expert Opinion or Performance/Quality Improvement

Expert opinions are gathered from individuals who are considered experts in their fields. Performance and quality improvement projects use interventions that are evidence-based concepts originating from research then translated into practice.

Level of Evidence

Reference List Citation

Conceptual Framework/Model or Theory Supporting the Study or Intervention

Research Method & Design or Performance Improvement Intervention

Setting &

Participants’ Demographic and Size of the Participant Sample

Major Variables Studied and Their Definitions:

Independent Versus Dependent Variable

Data Measurement:

What Was Measured and What Was the Frequency of Measure?

Data Analysis:

Statistical Analysis (Quantitative) or Thematic Coding (Qualitative)

Findings:

Data Evidence

See example below:

IV

Forsythe, L. L. (2021). Exploring an orthopedic case with action research. Journal of Qualitative Explorations, 1(2), 12–20.

Coordinated Management of Meaning

Qualitative Method/ Action Research Framework

Trauma Center Operating Room/20 participants of nurses, MDs, technologists

Orthopedic surgical case/discussion and change

Conversation of process change

Thematic Coding

Themes