Updated methodological guidance for the conduct of scoping reviews

Spiritual intelligence: a scoping review on the gateway to mental health

Spiritual Intelligence (SI) is an independent concept from spirituality, a unifying and integrative intelligence that can be trained and developed, allowing people to make use of spirituality to enhance daily interaction and problem solving in a sort of spirituality into action. To comprehensively map and analyze current knowledge on SI and understand its impact on mental health and human interactions, we conducted a scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, searching for 'spiritual intelligence' across PubMedCentral, Scopus, WebOfScience, and PsycInfo. Quantitative studies using validated SI instruments and reproducible methodologies, published up to 1 January 2022, were included. Selected references were independently assessed by two reviewers, with any disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. Data were extracted using a data extraction tool previously developed and piloted. From this search, a total of 69 manuscripts from 67 studies were included. Most studies (n = 48) were conducted in educational (n = 29) and healthcare (n = 19) settings, with the Spiritual Intelligence Self Report Inventory (SISRI-24) emerging as the predominant instrument for assessing SI (n = 39). Analysis revealed several notable correlations with SI: resilience (n = 7), general, mental, and spiritual health (n = 6), emotional intelligence (n = 5), and favorable social behaviors and communication strategies (n = 5). Conversely, negative correlations were observed with burnout and stress (n = 5), as well as depression and anxiety (n = 5). These findings prompt a discussion regarding the integration of the SI concept into a revised definition of health by the World Health Organization and underscore the significance of SI training as a preventative health measure.

A systematic review of measures of healthcare workers' vaccine confidence

Healthcare workers (HCW) perceptions toward vaccines influence patient and community vaccine decision making. In an era of rising vaccine hesitancy, understanding HCW vaccine confidence is critical. This systematic review aims to review instruments that have been validated to measure HCW vaccine confidence. We conducted a search in five databases in June 2023. Data was descriptively synthesized. Twelve articles describing 10 different tools were included. Most tools included dimensions or items on vaccine knowledge (n = 9), safety (n = 8), vaccine usefulness (n = 8), recommendation behavior (n = 8), and self-vaccination practice (n = 7). All, except one study, were conducted in high-income countries. There was variability in the quality of the validation process. There is limited existing literature on development and validation of tools for HCW vaccine confidence. Based on the tools currently available, the Pro-VC-Be tool is the most well validated. Further research needs to include low- and middle-income contexts.

The impacts of the Nutrition North Canada program on the accessibility and affordability of perishable, nutritious foods among eligible communities: a scoping review

The Nutrition North Canada (NNC) program, introduced in April 2011 is a federal strategy to improve access to perishable, nutritious foods for remote and isolated communities in northern Canada by subsidising retailers to provide price reductions at the point of purchase. As of March 2023, 123 communities are eligible for the program. To evaluate existing evidence and research on the NNC program to inform policy decisions to improve the effectiveness of NNC. A scoping review of peer-reviewed articles was conducted in ten databases along with a supplemental grey literature search of government and non-government reports published between 2011 and 2022. The search yielded 172 publications for screening, of which 42 were included in the analysis. Narrative thematic evidence synthesis yielded 104 critiques and 341 recommendations of the NNC program across eight themes. The most-identified recommendations focus on transparency, communication, and support for harvesting, hunting, and community food initiatives. This review highlights recommendations informed by the literature to address critiques of the NNC program to improve food security, increase access to perishable and non-perishable items, and support community-based food initiatives among eligible communities. The review also identifies priority areas for future policy directions such as additional support for education initiatives, communication and transparency amidst program changes, and food price regulations.

Nutritional perspectives in female soccer: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

The purpose of the review was to evaluate the literature exploring nutritional habits and practices in female soccer players.

METHODS

The PRISMA-ScR Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews were followed. Searches of Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus databases were conducted for studies exploring the nutritional habits and practices of female soccer players.

RESULTS

A total of 72 studies were included in the scoping review. Studies on female soccer players mainly focused on daily energy expenditure, daily energy and macronutrient intake and hydration status. A negative energy balance was consistent across studies, and the ingestion of CHO appears below the current recommendations. Female soccer players are predominately in negative energy balance, which may indicate that they are at risk of low energy availability. A high use of nutritional supplements is apparent in female soccer, whilst a large proportion of players commence training dehydrated.

CONCLUSIONS

The current findings have implications for practitioners relating to the planning, management, monitoring, and implementation of nutritional intake and training and competition schedules.

Findings on dietary characteristics among Haitian immigrants and the threat of food insecurity: A scoping review

Objectives

This study aimed to map and describe the available evidence on dietary characteristics and diet-related health conditions among Haitian immigrants across the globe.

Study design

Scoping review.

Methods

This review was based on the international guide Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The searches were conducted in several electronic databases in July 2023. Reports focusing on diet, nutrition, and diet-related health conditions among international Haitian immigrants published in English, Portuguese, French, or Spanish with no year limit were included. The data extracted was tabulated and presented in a narrative summary.

Results

Database search retrieved 502 records, of which 30 met the inclusion criteria. The categories that emerged from the analysis were: food consumption patterns and trends, food and nutrition insecurity, cultural identity, and diet-related health conditions. Findings suggest: available evidence underrepresents Latin America and the Caribbean context; research gaps related to adolescents and the elderly and also to noncommunicable diseases except obesity; changes in food consumption after immigration towards less healthy eating; the Haitian immigrant's preference for healthy and traditional eating patterns; many experiences of food insecurity related to poverty, unemployment, and lack of social support, especially in host countries in Latin America and the Caribbean; and a high prevalence of obesity, especially among women.

Conclusions

Further research is required in countries in Latin America, mainly. Diet-related chronic diseases, adolescents, and the elderly should be targeted for further research. We recommend: longitudinal and qualitative research; field action reports describing local and global strategies to manage Haitian migration-related food and nutrition issues; culturally appropriate dietary interventions; and policies to protect and support the most vulnerable Haitian immigrants to have their fundamental right to adequate food guaranteed, reducing health inequalities.

Assessing impaired bed mobility in patients with Parkinson's disease: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Although most patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) experience difficulties in bed mobility, evidence on the suitability of the methods for assessing impaired bed mobility in PD are lacking.

OBJECTIVES

To identify objective methods for assessing impaired bed mobility in PD and to discuss their clinimetric properties and feasibility for use in clinical practice.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched between 1995 and 2022.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies were included if they described an objective assessment method for assessing impaired bed mobility in PD.

DATA EXTRACTION AND DATA SYNTHESIS

Characteristics of the identified measurement methods such as clinimetric properties and feasibility were extracted by two authors. The methodological quality of studies was evaluated using the Appraisal of studies tool.

RESULTS

Twenty-three studies were included and categorised into three assessment methods: sensor-based assessments (48%), rating scales (39%), and timed-tests (13%). The risk of bias was low for all but one study, which was medium.

LIMITATIONS

Despite applying wide selection criteria, a relatively small number of studies were identified in our results.

CONCLUSION

Rating scales may be the most preferred for assessing impaired bed mobility in PD in clinical practice, until clinimetric validity are adequately demonstrated in the other assessment methods. CONTRIBUTION OF PAPER.

A scoping review of therapist behaviors in guided digital mental health interventions

Guided digital mental health interventions are more effective than unguided interventions. While research often emphasizes the frequency and intensity of guidance, less attention has been paid to the behaviors enacted by the therapists supporting clients using these interventions. A scoping review of the literature was conducted to systematically examine the evidence on therapist behaviors (i.e., the actions and feedback provided by supporters to patients). Applying broad eligibility criteria, a systematic search was conducted in PubMed, PsycInfo, the Cochrane Library, and Embase from their inception to January 1st 2024. Sixteen studies met inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Following data extraction, a descriptive analysis and synthesis of the results was performed. Most studies (n = 12; 75 %) focused on therapist behaviors in the context of internet-delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for anxiety and depression. While earlier studies primarily focused on identifying therapist behaviors, later studies shifted towards examining the associations between therapist behaviors and different outcomes, as well as deriving research and clinical applications for improving guided internet-delivered treatments. Identified gaps and recommendations for clinical practice, research, training, and treatment development are discussed.

Psychological treatments for mental health symptoms associated with COVID-19 infection: A scoping review

The aim of this scoping review was to synthesize published studies and ongoing clinical trials of psychological interventions for mental health problems associated with COVID-19 infection. The study protocol was developed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Extension for Scoping Reviews. We conducted systematic searches for studies published or registered between January 2020 and October 2022 using eight scientific databases and clinical trial registries, which identified 40 complete published studies and 53 ongoing clinical trials. We found that most studies were randomized controlled trials (74%) while the remaining used study designs of lower methodological quality. Most studies investigated interventions for acute COVID-19 patients (74%) and others explored post-COVID conditions (PCC) or recovered patients. Cognitive and behavioral therapies were the main intervention approaches (31%), followed by multidisciplinary programs (21%) and mindfulness (17%). The most frequently evaluated outcomes were anxiety (33%), depression (26%), quality of life (13%), and insomnia (10%). No studies on youths, older people, or marginalized communities were found. These findings summarize the burgeoning research on a range of psychological interventions for individuals infected with COVID-19. However, the field is in its infancy and further research to develop an evidence base for targeted care is necessary. The gaps identified in the current study also highlight the need for more research on youths, older people, and members of marginalized communities, and PCC patients. It is important to ascertain interventions and delivery strategies that are not only effective and affordable but also allow high scalability and accessibility.

Mosques and Public Health Promotion: A Scoping Review of Faith-Driven Health Interventions

BACKGROUND

Religious institutions play a crucial role in health promotion and hold significant influence in the public health field.

AIM

The aim of this review is to examine outcomes of health-promoting interventions involving the use of mosques as the intervention venue, its role in promoting health behavior change, and the role of theory in each intervention.

METHODS

A scoping review was conducted across 17 databases for relevant publications published up to and including August 2023 that involved the use of mosques as the intervention venue. Fourteen articles met inclusion criteria and were reviewed.

RESULTS

The studies featured a wide range of interventions. However, only eight of these studies integrated theoretical frameworks into their approaches, indicating a need for more structured guidance in this field. These theoretical frameworks included Participatory Action Research (PAR), the theory of planned behavior, behavior-change constructs, the patient-centered outcomes research (PCOR) framework, and prolonged exposure techniques within Islamic principles. The review identified three main health-focused intervention categories: mental health, prevention, and communication, each providing valuable insights into initiatives within Muslim communities.

CONCLUSIONS

This review underscores the significance of inclusive and culturally sensitive health interventions, emphasizing the effectiveness of faith-based approaches in improving health outcomes, promoting positive health behaviors, and addressing communication and cultural barriers. The reviews findings stress the need for further research that incorporates theoretical frameworks and tailored interventions to meet the specific cultural needs of these communities, ultimately contributing to enhanced well-being within them.

Evidence for Altered White Matter Organisation After Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: A Scoping Review on the Use of Diffusion MRI and Blood-Based Biomarkers to Investigate Acute Pathology and Relationship to Persistent Post-Concussion Symptoms

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is the most common form of traumatic brain injury. Post-concussive symptoms typically resolve after a few weeks although up to 20% of people experience these symptoms for >3 months, termed persistent-post concussive symptoms (PPCS). Subtle white matter (WM) microstructural damage is thought to underlie neurological and cognitive deficits experienced post-mTBI. Evidence suggests that diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) and blood-based biomarkers could be used as surrogate markers of WM organisation. We conducted a scoping review according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines, aiming to collate evidence for the use of dMRI and/or blood-based biomarkers of WM organisation, in mTBI and PPCS, and document relationships between WM biomarkers and symptoms. We focused specifically on biomarkers of axonal or myelin integrity post-mTBI. Biomarkers excluded from this review therefore included: astroglial, perivascular, endothelial and inflammatory markers. A literature search performed across four databases: EMBASE, Scopus, Google Scholar and ProQuest identified 100 records: 68 analysed dMRI, 28 assessed blood-based biomarkers and 4 used both. Blood biomarker studies commonly assessed axonal cytoskeleton proteins (i.e. tau); dMRI studies assessed measures of WM organisation (i.e. fractional anisotropy). Significant biomarker alterations were frequently associated with heightened symptom burden and prolonged recovery time post-injury. These data suggests that dMRI and blood-based biomarkers may be useful proxies of WM organisation, though few studies assessed these complementary measures in parallel and the relationship between modalities remains unclear. Further studies are warranted to assess the benefit of a combined biomarker approach in evaluating alterations to WM organisation after mTBI.

Linguistically responsive learning and teaching for non-native speakers in undergraduate nursing education: a scoping review protocol

INTRODUCTION

Non-native-speaking nursing students as well as faculty, preceptors and mentors face specific issues related to language in undergraduate nursing education. A better understanding of the language experiences, needs, requirements, assessments and support activities will guide linguistically responsive learning and teaching and will direct future curriculum development. This scoping review aims to examine and map the extent of literature related to linguistically responsive learning and teaching for non-native speakers in undergraduate nursing education and to describe the lived experiences, barriers and facilitators, language needs, assessment tools and supportive interventions.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This scoping review will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). In May 2023, a preliminary search was conducted. The comprehensive search will include MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL (EBSCO), ERIC (EBSCO) and MLA (EBSCO). OpenGrey (DANS) and reference lists of the included articles will be searched for grey literature and additional articles. Two independent reviewers will screen titles and abstracts, then review the full texts of articles. Data will be extracted using a data extraction form and will be presented in figures, tables and narrative syntheses, in line with the review questions. This review will include articles that describe the experiences of non-native-speaking nursing students, faculty or preceptors in undergraduate nursing education and clinical practice environment. Articles that report on language requirements, needs and assessment tools will also be considered as well as articles reporting on supportive activities and interventions within the study programmes. Articles related to exchange students or programmes will be excluded.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

No ethical approval is required. The findings of the review will be disseminated through peer-review publication as well as oral and poster presentations at scientific conferences.

Behavioral change interventions, theories, and techniques to reduce physical inactivity and sedentary behavior in the general population: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Worldwide, physical inactivity (PIA) and sedentary behavior (SB) are recognized as significant challenges hindering the achievement of the United Nations (UN) sustainable development goals (SDGs). PIA and SB are responsible for 1.6 million deaths attributed to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged governments to implement interventions informed by behavioral theories aimed at reducing PIA and SB. However, limited attention has been given to the range of theories, techniques, and contextual conditions underlying the design of behavioral theories. To this end, we set out to map these interventions, their levels of action, their mode of delivery, and how extensively they apply behavioral theories, constructs, and techniques.

METHODS

Following the scoping review methodology of Arksey and O'Malley (2005), we included peer-reviewed articles on behavioral theories interventions centered on PIA and SB, published between 2010 and 2023 in Arabic, French, and English in four databases (Scopus, Web of Science [WoS], PubMed, and Google Scholar). We adopted a framework thematic analysis based on the upper-level ontology of behavior theories interventions, Behavioral theories taxonomies, and the first version (V1) taxonomy of behavior change techniques(BCTs).

RESULTS

We included 29 studies out of 1,173 that were initially screened/searched. The majority of interventions were individually focused (n = 15). Few studies have addressed interpersonal levels (n = 6) or organizational levels (n = 6). Only two interventions can be described as systemic (i.e., addressing the individual, interpersonal, organizational, and institutional factors)(n = 2). Most behavior change interventions use four theories: The Social cognitive theory (SCT), the socioecological model (SEM), SDT, and the transtheoretical model (TTM). Most behavior change interventions (BCIS) involve goal setting, social support, and action planning with various degrees of theoretical use (intensive [n = 15], moderate [n = 11], or low [n = 3]).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Our review suggests the need to develop systemic and complementary interventions that entail the micro-, meso- and macro-level barriers to behavioral changes. Theory informed BCI need to integrate synergistic BCTs into models that use micro-, meso- and macro-level theories to determine behavioral change. Future interventions need to appropriately use a mix of behavioral theories and BCTs to address the systemic nature of behavioral change as well as the heterogeneity of contexts and targeted populations.

Nursing Variables Predicting Readmissions in Patients With a High Risk: A Scoping Review

Unplanned readmission endangers patient safety and increases unnecessary healthcare expenditure. Identifying nursing variables that predict patient readmissions can aid nurses in providing timely nursing interventions that help patients avoid readmission after discharge. We aimed to provide an overview of the nursing variables predicting readmission of patients with a high risk. The authors searched five databases-PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Scopus-for publications from inception to April 2023. Search terms included "readmission" and "nursing records." Eight studies were included for review. Nursing variables were classified into three categories-specifically, nursing assessment, nursing diagnosis, and nursing intervention. The nursing assessment category comprised 75% of the nursing variables; the proportions of the nursing diagnosis (25%) and nursing intervention categories (12.5%) were relatively low. Although most variables of the nursing assessment category focused on the patients' physical aspect, emotional and social aspects were also considered. This study demonstrated how nursing care contributes to patients' adverse outcomes. The findings can assist nurses in identifying the essential nursing assessment, diagnosis, and interventions, which should be provided from the time of patients' admission. This can mitigate preventable readmissions of patients with a high risk and facilitate their safe transition from an acute care setting to the community.

A scoping review of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS), protocol implementation, and its impact on surgical outcomes and healthcare systems in Africa

BACKGROUND

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is a patient-centered approach to surgery designed to reduce stress responses and facilitate faster recovery. ERAS protocols have been widely adopted in high-income countries, supported by robust research demonstrating improved patient outcomes. However, in Africa, there is limited evidence regarding its implementation. This review aims to identify the existing literature on the implementation of ERAS principles in Africa, the reported clinical outcomes, and the challenges and recommendations for successful implementation.

METHODS

We conducted a librarian-assisted literature search of electronic research databases between October and November 2023. Titles and abstracts were screened for eligibility, and duplicates were then removed, followed by full-text assessment of potentially eligible studies. We utilized the summative content analysis method to synthesize and group the data into fewer categories based on agreed-upon criteria. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the results.

RESULTS

The search identified 342 potential studies resulting in 15 eligible studies for inclusion in the review. The publication years ranged from 2016 to 2023. The studies originated from three countries: Egypt (n = 10), South Africa (n = 4), and Uganda (n = 1). Successful implementation was associated with reduced hospital length of stay (n = 12), lower mortality rates (n = 3), and improved pain outcomes (n = 7). Challenges included protocol adherence (n = 5) and limitations of the research design to generate strong evidence (n = 3). Recommendations included formal adoption of ERAS principles (n = 5), the need for sustained research commitment, and exploration of the applicability of ERAS in diverse surgical contexts (n = 8). Large-scale implementation beyond individual institutions was encouraged to further validate its impact on patient outcomes and healthcare costs (n = 1).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the limited number of studies on ERAS implementation in Africa, the available evidence suggests that it reduces the length of hospital stays and mortality rates. This is crucial for the region, given its higher mortality rates, necessitating more collaborative, methodically well-designed studies to establish stronger evidence for ERAS in lower-resource environments.

Addressing missing outcome data in randomised controlled trials: A methodological scoping review

BACKGROUND

Missing outcome data is common in trials, and robust methods to address this are needed. Most trial reports currently use methods applicable under a missing completely at random assumption (MCAR), although this strong assumption can often be inappropriate.

OBJECTIVE

To identify and summarise current literature on the analytical methods for handling missing outcome data in randomised controlled trials (RCTs), emphasising methods appropriate for data missing at random (MAR) or missing not at random (MNAR).

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

We conducted a methodological scoping review and identified papers through searching four databases (MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, and CINAHL) from January 2015 to March 2023. We also performed forward and backward citation searching. Eligible papers discussed methods or frameworks for handling missing outcome data in RCTs or simulation studies with an RCT design.

RESULTS

From 1878 records screened, our search identified 101 eligible papers. 90 (89%) papers described specific methods for addressing missing outcome data and 11 (11%) described frameworks for overall methodological approach. Of the 90 methods papers, 30 (33%) described methods under the MAR assumption, 48 (53%) explored methods under the MNAR assumption and 11 (12%) discussed methods under a hybrid of MAR and MNAR assumptions. Control-based methods under the MNAR assumption were the most common method explored, followed by multiple imputation under the MAR assumption.

CONCLUSION

This review provides guidance on available analytic approaches for handling missing outcome data, particularly under the MNAR assumption. These findings may support trialists in using appropriate methods to address missing outcome data.

The use of ketogenic diets in children living with drug-resistant epilepsy, glucose transporter 1 deficiency syndrome and pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

The ketogenic diet (KD) is a high fat, moderate protein and very low carbohydrate diet. It can be used as a medical treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE), glucose transporter 1 deficiency syndrome and pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency. The aim of this scoping review was to map the KD literature, with a focus on epilepsy and associated metabolic conditions, to summarise the current evidence-base and identify any gaps.

METHODS

This review was conducted using JBI scoping review methodological guidance and the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews reporting guidance. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in September 2021 and updated in February 2024 using MEDLINE, CINAHL, AMED, EmBASE, CAB Abstracts, Scopus and Food Science Source databases.

RESULTS

The initial search yielded 2721 studies and ultimately, data were extracted from 320 studies that fulfilled inclusion criteria for the review. There were five qualitative studies, and the remainder were quantitative, including 23 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and seven quasi-experimental studies. The USA published the highest number of KD studies followed by China, South Korea and the UK. Most studies focused on the classical KD and DRE. The studies key findings suggest that the KD is efficacious, safe and tolerable.

CONCLUSIONS

There are opportunities available to expand the scope of future KD research, particularly to conduct high-quality RCTs and further qualitative research focused on the child's needs and family support to improve the effectiveness of KDs.

Frailty and brain changes in older adults without cognitive impairment: A scoping review

Little is known about changes in the brain associated with frailty, in particular, which brain areas could be related to frailty in older people without cognitive impairment. This scoping review mapped evidence on functional and/or structural brain changes in frail older adults without cognitive impairment. The methodology proposed by the JBI® was used in this study. The search in PubMed, PubMed PMC, BVS/BIREME, EBSCOHOST, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and PROQUEST was conducted up to January 2023. Studies included following the population, concepts, context and the screening and data extraction were performed by two independent reviewers. A total of 9,912 records were identified, 5,676 were duplicates and were excluded. The remaining articles were screened; 31 were read in full and 17 articles were included. The results showed that lesions in white matter hyperintensities, reduced volume of the hippocampus, cerebellum, middle frontal gyrus, low gray matter volume, cortical atrophy, decreased connectivity of the supplementary motor area, presence of amyloid-beta peptide (aβ) in the anterior and posterior putamen and precuneus regions were more frequently observed in frail older adults, compared with non-frail individuals. Studies have suggested that such findings may be of neurodegenerative or cerebrovascular origin. The identification of these brain alterations in frail older adults through neuroimaging studies contributes to our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of frailty. Such findings may have implications for the early detection of frailty and implementation of intervention strategies.

Clinical educator expertise: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Allied health clinicians supervising healthcare students in workplace learning play a key role in a learner's progression to autonomous practice, yet expert educator practice is not well understood. How expert clinical educators in allied health professions are defined, enact their role, develop educational expertise and bring value to workplace learning is unclear.

METHODS

A scoping methodology was chosen to understand what is known about clinical educator expertise in allied health, focusing on definitions, characteristics, impacts and development. Searching seven databases, the authors used an iterative, systematic approach to the selection, collation and analysis of peer-reviewed and grey literature.

RESULTS

Within 21 included papers, diverse terms and definitions were used to describe expert clinical educators across 9 allied health professions and 5 countries. Expert educator characteristics included advanced skills in facilitating learning, the ability to build positive relationships with learners and a proactive attitude to developing personal supervision skills through reflection. Impacts were identified for learners and educators, and the few sources examining educator development found that expert practice grows in a dynamic, multi-mode, non-linear fashion.

CONCLUSION

A comprehensive picture of the expert clinical educator in allied health is not yet conceptualised, despite some characteristics being associated with expertise. The differences between expert and less proficient educators are unclear with little examination of the impacts, value or development of expert educator capabilities. We offer a framework for future research and advocate for focused studies that examine clinical educator expertise, to enhance approaches to professional development and recognition of excellence in clinical educator practice.

Type 1 diabetes and frailty: A scoping review

AIMS

Advances in type 1 diabetes management are enabling more to reach older ages. Frailty is known to complicate type 2 diabetes. However, frailty in people with type 1 diabetes has not been extensively researched. This review summarises the available evidence on frailty in those with type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

A systematic search strategy was applied to multiple databases (Medline, Embase, CINAHL and Cochrane) including grey literature (Scopus, OAIster, OpenGrey, dissertation and thesis database). All evidence types were considered. English articles published after 2001 were eligible. For inclusion, participants must have been over 55 with type 1 diabetes. Frailty must have been clearly defined or assessed. The results were synthesised into a descriptive format to identify key themes.

RESULTS

Of 233 papers subject to full-text review, 23 were included. Older adult diabetes research frequently does not specify the type of diabetes; 100 articles were excluded for this reason. No articles were found specifically researching frailty in older adults with type 1 diabetes. Fourteen different definitions and nine assessments of frailty were outlined. Generally, the papers supported relaxation of glucose targets and greater adoption of diabetes technology.

CONCLUSIONS

This review highlights the paucity of evidence in older adults with type 1 diabetes and frailty. Consensus on standardised definitions and assessments of frailty would aid future research, which is urgently needed as more people with type 1 diabetes reach older ages. Identifying and addressing the key issues in this population is vital to support individuals through the challenges of ageing.

Implementation Strategies for Quality Improvement in Palliative Care: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Quality improvement (QI) programs based on person-centred outcome measures (PCOMs) play an important role in promoting optimal palliative care. However, routine use of PCOMs has been slow and difficult to implement, including within QI programs.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify implementation strategies that support the implementation of PCOMs as routine practice in hospital-based palliative care, as well as the implementation theories, models and frameworks (TMFs) guiding the design of these implementation strategies.

METHODS

A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Scoping Review framework. Four databases (Medline, CINAHL, Scopus and PubMed) were systematically searched for literature published between 1 January 1990 and 8 March 2024.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifteen unique implementation strategies, identified from 11 included studies, were mapped onto the 73 Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) discrete implementation strategies, covering 52% of the ERIC strategies. The most commonly used categories were train and educate stakeholders, and support clinicians, followed by develop stakeholder interrelationships and use evaluation and iterative strategies. Three key themes emerged: what to do; how to do it; and who to do it with. Only four studies employed TMFs to guide the design of the implementation strategies in this review.

CONCLUSIONS

To promote the implementation of PCOM-based QI programs, strategies should be developed based on identified/potential barriers and facilitators by using rigorous TMFs. The components of the implementation strategies must be reported transparently and consistently to enable replication and measurement in future research and practice.

PATIENT AND PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

This scoping review does not directly involve patients or the general public in its design or execution. However, it is part of an implementation study aimed at integrating the Palliative Care Outcome Collaboration (PCOC) model into routine clinical practice at a cancer hospital in China. Before the formal implementation, palliative care professionals from this hospital highlighted the need for a comprehensive analysis of existing evidence to support the effective adoption of the PCOC model in their specific clinical setting.

Application of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas in cardiovascular disease research: a scoping review identifying implications for research

Objective To scope how the Australian Bureau of Statistics Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas (SEIFA) has been applied to measure socio-economic status (SES) in peer-reviewed cardiovascular disease (CVD) research. Methods The Joanna Briggs Institute's scoping review methodology was used. Results The search retrieved 2788 unique citations, and 49 studies were included. Studies were heterogeneous in their approach to analysis using SEIFA. Not all studies provided information as to what version was used and how SEIFA was applied in analysis. Spatial unit of analysis varied between studies, with participant postcode most frequently applied. Study quality varied. Conclusions The use of SEIFA in Australian CVD peer-reviewed research is widespread, with variations in the application of SEIFA to measure SES as an exposure. There is a need to improve the reporting of how SEIFA is applied in the methods sections of research papers for greater transparency and to ensure accurate interpretation of CVD research.

Opportunistic smoking cessation interventions for people accessing financial support settings: A scoping review

AIM

The aim of this work was to systematically scope the evidence on opportunistic tobacco smoking cessation interventions for people accessing financial support settings.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Tobacco Addiction Group specialized register to 21 March 2023. We duplicate screened 20% of titles/abstracts and all full texts. We included primary studies investigating smoking cessation interventions delivered opportunistically to people who smoked tobacco, within settings offering support for problems caused by financial hardship, for example homeless support services, social housing and food banks. Data were charted by one reviewer, checked by another and narratively synthesized.

RESULTS

We included 25 studies conducted in a range of financial support settings using qualitative (e.g. interviews and focus groups) and quantitative (e.g. randomized controlled trials, surveys and single arm intervention studies) methodologies. Evidence on the acceptability and feasibility of opportunistic smoking cessation advice was investigated among both clients and providers. Approximately 90% of service providers supported such interventions; however, lack of resources, staff training and a belief that tobacco smoking reduced illicit substance use were perceived barriers. Clients welcomed being asked about smoking and offered assistance to quit and expressed interest in interventions including the provision of nicotine replacement therapy, e-cigarettes and incentives to quit smoking. Six studies investigated the comparative effectiveness of opportunistic smoking cessation interventions on quitting success, with five comparing more to less intensive interventions, with mixed results.

CONCLUSIONS

Most studies investigating opportunistic smoking cessation interventions in financial support settings have not measured their effectiveness. Where they have, settings, populations, interventions and findings have varied. There is more evidence investigating acceptability, with promising results.

mHealth Interventions to Improve the Breast Cancer Continuum of Care from Prevention to Survivorship of Hispanic Women: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in Hispanic women in the USA. Current interventions to improve breast cancer care include the use of mHealth, but its application in Hispanic women is limited. This scoping review aimed to describe the extent of research literature on the use of mHealth throughout the breast cancer care continuum (prevention, early detection, and treatment) in Hispanic women.

METHODS

A scoping review guided by the Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework and the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review reporting protocol. Literature search of peer-reviewed research articles from 2012 to 2022 in PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL® was conducted in March and June 2022.

RESULTS

Of the 10 articles selected, seven included Hispanic breast cancer survivors and three included Hispanic women at risk for developing breast cancer. Seven articles involved mobile applications and three articles used text messaging and/or cell phone voicemail. Overall, the use of mHealth for breast cancer care in Hispanics was favorable but generalizability was limited given the type of design and small samples. All interventions were tailored to Hispanic culture.

CONCLUSION

Scarcity of research on mHealth in Hispanic breast cancer care highlights healthcare disparities in this population. Evidence from this review suggests the use of mHealth to be beneficial to improving breast cancer care in Hispanics, but more research is needed involving randomized clinical trials and larger samples.

Cerebellar Neurostimulation for Boosting Social and Affective Functions: Implications for the Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxia Patients

Beyond motor deficits, spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) patients also suffer cognitive decline and show socio-affective difficulties, negatively impacting on their social functioning. The possibility to modulate cerebello-cerebral networks involved in social cognition through cerebellar neurostimulation has opened up potential therapeutic applications for ameliorating social and affective difficulties. The present review offers an overview of the research on cerebellar neurostimulation for the modulation of socio-affective functions in both healthy individuals and different clinical populations, published in the time period 2000-2022. A total of 25 records reporting either transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) or transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) studies were found. The investigated clinical populations comprised different pathological conditions, including but not limited to SCA syndromes. The reviewed evidence supports that cerebellar neurostimulation is effective in improving social abilities in healthy individuals and reducing social and affective symptoms in different neurological and psychiatric populations associated with cerebellar damage or with impairments in functions that involve the cerebellum. These findings encourage to further explore the rehabilitative effects of cerebellar neurostimulation on socio-affective deficits experienced by patients with cerebellar abnormalities, as SCA patients. Nevertheless, conclusions remain tentative at this stage due to the heterogeneity characterizing stimulation protocols, study methodologies and patients' samples.

Advanced practice nurse competencies to practice in emergency and critical care settings: A scoping review

AIM

Advanced Practice Nurses are expected to provide lifesaving care to patients with complex acute illnesses in emergency and critical care settings. However, little is known about their competencies and barriers to practice in emergency and critical care settings. This review investigated these nurses' competencies to practice.

METHODS

A scoping review was conducted in accordance with Arksey and O'Malley's framework. Extensive research searches were conducted using seven electronic databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, Ichushi Web, Mednar and GreyNet International. Definitions and explanations of Advanced Practice Nurse competencies were categorized into elements and grouped according to similarity.

RESULTS

The database searches identified 2,483 studies, and data were extracted for 23 studies. Analysed studies were published between 2000 and 2021 and conducted in eight countries. Seven competencies were identified: performing advanced practice nursing, acute patient care, diagnostic assessment, interdisciplinary collaboration and consultation, leadership and system management, documenting patient care and supporting patient and family decision-making.

CONCLUSION

This review identified competencies unique to Advanced Practice Nurses in emergency and critical care settings. Further research is required to facilitate understanding of the crucial roles of advanced care nurses among healthcare providers.

Teacher-therapist collaboration in inclusive primary schools: A scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Inclusive school environments require collaboration between teachers and allied health professionals to promote student access and participation. Collaboration is a complex phenomenon with no universally accepted definition or measurement and with many challenges to effective practice. The purpose of this scoping review is to describe what is known about interprofessional collaboration between teachers and therapists in inclusive primary schools.

METHODS

A scoping review of health and education literature was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Peer-reviewed articles reporting on empirical studies with a focus on collaboration between teachers and school-based occupational therapists or speech and language therapists in inclusive primary schools were included.

RESULTS

Results summarise how collaboration is reported in the literature. Numerical and descriptive summaries describe how collaboration is defined and measured, the challenges to collaborative practice, the structures required to support effective practice, and the outcomes of such practice.

CONCLUSION

Definitions vary between studies and disciplines but contain common elements. For effective practice, the purpose of the collaboration must be clear, and the intended outcomes of the collaboration are measured. Measurement of collaboration requires further research using tools developed from robust theoretical frameworks and validated within the educational context and with professionals of different disciplines. Consistent measurement tools would allow cross-study comparisons. Barriers to collaborative practice are well documented; thus, future research should be directed to examining effective practice, investigating how professionals circumvent obstacles.

The clinical role of remimazolam: Protocol for a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Remimazolam, a novel benzodiazepine, shows promise as an alternative to traditional sedatives and hypnotic agents in procedural sedation and general anaesthesia. While preliminary research indicates potential advantages over conventional agents, such as faster onset, predictable duration, and improved safety profile, the extent and quality of existing evidence remain unclear. This scoping review aims to investigate the current clinical role of remimazolam and provide a broad and comprehensive overview.

METHODS

The proposed review will adhere to the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis for Scoping Reviews. A comprehensive search will be conducted across major peer-reviewed databases and grey literature will be sought. All studies involving individuals undergoing procedural sedation or general anaesthesia with remimazolam will be eligible. Data extraction will encompass trial and participant characteristics, intervention details, reported outcomes, comparative efficacy versus midazolam and propofol, patient and operator experience and economic costs.

RESULTS

We will provide a descriptive summary supplemented by statistics, figures and tables where applicable.

CONCLUSION

The outlined scoping review aims to assess the clinical use of remimazolam in procedural sedation and as the hypnotic component of general anaesthesia. The review will map the current body of evidence of remimazolam and identify knowledge gaps, contributing to understanding its clinical implications and guiding future research efforts in procedural sedation and general anaesthesia.

Central and Eastern European Migrants in the United Kingdom: A Scoping Review of the Reasons for Utilisation of Transnational Healthcare

BACKGROUND

An estimated 2.2 million people from Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) live in the United Kingdom. It has been documented that CEE migrants underutilise health services in the United Kingdom and, as an alternative, seek healthcare in their home country. However, reasons for seeking healthcare abroad are not always clear. This review aims to identify the reasons for the uptake of transnational healthcare among CEE migrants resident in the United Kingdom.

METHODS

Informed by discussions with community members, medical stakeholders and academics, a systematic scoping review was undertaken following the nine-stage Joanna Briggs Institute framework for scoping reviews. A search strategy with MeSH terms, where relevant, was used and adapted in five academic databases, two grey literature databases and Google Scholar. Included records encompassed four concepts: migration, CEE nationalities, UK nations and healthcare utilisation, which were written in English and published between May 2004 and 2022. Data from the literature were coded, grouped and organised into themes.

RESULTS

A total of 16 publications fulfilled the inclusion criteria. There is evidence that some CEE migrants exclusively use healthcare services in the United Kingdom. However, many CEE migrants utilise healthcare both in the United Kingdom and their country of origin. Four themes were identified from the literature as to why migrants travelled to their country of origin for healthcare: cultural expectations of medical services, distrust in the UK NHS, barriers and transnational ties.

CONCLUSION

Push factors led CEE migrants to seek healthcare in their country of origin, facilitated by ongoing transnational ties. CEE migrants frequently combine visits to their country of origin with medical appointments. Utilising healthcare in their country of origin as opposed to the United Kingdom can result in fragmented and incomplete records of medications, medical tests and surgeries and risk of unnecessary treatments and complications. This review highlights the need for more targeted health outreach with CEE groups within the United Kingdom, as well as the need for further research on the impact of national events, for example, COVID-19 and Brexit, on transnational healthcare-seeking behaviours.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

The concept for this scoping review was informed by discussions with community members, medical professionals and academics, who identified it as a current issue. The results of this scoping review were discussed with healthcare stakeholders.

Integration of sex/gender and utilization of ecological Momentary assessment of cognition in clinical populations: A scoping review

Objectives: We aimed to describe the methods of smartphone-based cognitive ecological momentary assessment designs in clinical populations, with an intention to evaluate how the role of sex and/or gender has been considered in the design and analyses, particularly including female-specific physiology. Methods: This scoping review was conducted based on JBI scoping review methodology. On March 2nd, 2023, we searched for literature across four databases. Screening of the results and data extraction were conducted in duplicate according to the a priori methods in the pre-registered protocol. Results: 31 articles were included in this review. Participants ranged in age from 15-85 years old with various clinical disorders. Prompts were given between 1-7 times per day for 7-84 days. Executive function was the most frequently assessed cognitive domain. Over half the studies (n = 17, 55%) did not investigate the effects of sex and/or gender, and only one study considered the impact of hormonal therapy. Many studies (n = 14, 45%) used sex and gender interchangeably or incorrectly. Conclusions: Studies varied in design, with heterogeneity in the reporting of methodological information. The lack of attention to sex/gender on neuropsychological outcomes can lead to confusion and contradiction regarding its potential impact on cognition in clinical populations. This may hinder the identification of effective interventions for those assigned female at birth who have been overlooked or considered indistinguishable from their male counterparts. Given the well-documented impact of sex/gender on cognition, it is essential that future neuropsychological research, especially EMA-based studies, prioritize investigating sex/gender to ensure better outcomes for all.

Development of Fewer Falls in MS-An Online, Theory-Based, Fall Prevention Self-Management Programme for People With Multiple Sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe the process used to develop a theory-based, online fall prevention self-management programme for ambulatory and non-ambulatory people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS).

METHODS

The development process was guided by the Medical Research Council framework of complex interventions and began with a scoping review of the literature on self-management of falls in pwMS. Subsequent phases of development were performed through iterative and concurrent processes and were informed by the perspectives of pwMS and healthcare professionals with MS expertise.

RESULTS

Through a systematic and iterative process in close collaboration with pwMS and healthcare professionals, a theory-based online fall prevention self-management programme, Fewer Falls in MS, for ambulatory and non-ambulatory pwMS was developed. The programme is grounded in theory and pedagogical models and features utilization of action plans to address diverse influences on fall risks.

CONCLUSIONS

A carefully operationalized definition of self-management and an iterative co-development process were essential to the creation of the Fewer falls in MS programme. Continuation of the co-development process and collaboration with end users was needed to refine the programme.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

PwMS and healthcare professionals were involved throughout the development process of the programme. The patient organization Neuro Sweden was contacted in the initial phase to discuss the relevance of a self-management programme to prevent falls in MS. They supported the research group (all authors) in identification of and contact with pwMS with interest to participate. Three members of the research group (S.T.J., M.F. and C.Y.), that is, the operative group, met neuro Sweden and one pwMS to further discuss the relevance of a self-management programme to prevent falls. To develop the process and content of the fall prevention programme, a co-design process was performed together with pwMS and healthcare professionals. The results of the co-design process are presented in this manuscript. In addition to participating in the co-design process, pwMS and healthcare professionals provided feedback to the research group on programme process and content on several occasions during the subsequent programme development process. In a pretest (Beta version) of the programme, four pwMS acted as test subjects and provided additional feedback on the programme to the research group.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT04317716.

Training Service Users in the Use of Telehealth: Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

The use of telehealth has rapidly increased, yet some populations may be disproportionally excluded from accessing and using this modality of care. Training service users in telehealth may increase accessibility for certain groups. The extent and nature of these training activities have not been explored.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this scoping review is to identify and describe activities for training service users in the use of telehealth.

METHODS

Five databases (MEDLINE [via PubMed], Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science) were searched in June 2023. Studies that described activities to train service users in the use of synchronous telehealth consultations were eligible for inclusion. Studies that focused on health care professional education were excluded. Papers were limited to those published in the English language. The review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines for scoping reviews and was reported in line with the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. Titles and abstracts were screened by 1 reviewer (EG). Full texts were screened by 2 reviewers (EG and JH or SC). Data extraction was guided by the research question.

RESULTS

The search identified 8087 unique publications. In total, 13 studies met the inclusion criteria. Telehealth training was commonly described as once-off preparatory phone calls to service users before a telehealth visit, facilitated primarily by student volunteers, and accompanied by written instructions. The training content included guidance on how to download and install software, troubleshoot technical issues, and adjust device settings. Older adults were the most common target population for the training. All but 1 of the studies were conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, training was feasible and well-received by service users, and studies mostly reported increased rates of video visits following training. There was limited and mixed evidence that training improved participants' competency with telehealth.

CONCLUSIONS

The review mapped the literature on training activities for service users in telehealth. The common features of telehealth training for service users included once-off preparatory phone calls on the technical elements of telehealth, targeted at older adults. Key issues for consideration include the need for co-designed training and improving the broader digital skills of service users. There is a need for further studies to evaluate the outcomes of telehealth training activities in geographically diverse areas.

Investigating the overlapping presentation of irritable bowel syndrome and vulvodynia: a scoping review of the evidence and mechanisms

INTRODUCTION

Vulvodynia is a complex and multifactorial medical condition characterized by pain in the vulvar area without any identifiable cause. Vulvodynia is underdiagnosed, leading to increased risk of sexual dysfunction and reduced quality of life. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder predominantly affecting women. Vulvodynia and IBS frequently co-occur in women, with a 2- to 4-fold increased likelihood of IBS diagnosis in those with vulvodynia. These conditions may share underlying causes, highlighting the need for research to better understand their shared pathophysiology and develop effective therapeutics.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this scoping review was to assess the evidence of simultaneous presentation of IBS and vulvodynia.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted in 6 databases between inception of database and August 2023: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library. Studies included primary research about IBS and vulvodynia in terms of presentation overlap, diagnosis, or treatment. Data were extracted from eligible studies, summarized, and collated.

RESULTS

Of the 306 unique articles identified, 33 were included in the final analysis: 20 cross-sectional studies, 4 case-control studies, 2 case reports, 4 cohort studies, 2 quasi-experimental studies, and 1 randomized trial. Common themes included a high prevalence of overlapping vulvodynia and IBS with a significant diagnostic delay in vulvodynia, mast cell involvement and visceral hypersensitization as common pathophysiology, and the need for a multimodal treatment.

CONCLUSION

Our review adds to the evidence that there is an association between vulvodynia and IBS. Despite this, research on the underlying molecular mechanisms of this association is scarce, and diagnostic delays persist for vulvodynia. Increasing awareness of the overlap of these conditions will improve screening for vulvodynia in the patient population with IBS, thereby improving the diagnostic delay, and understanding the pathophysiology will enable treatment strategies that address both conditions.

Opioid exit plans for tapering postoperative pain control in noncancer patients: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

A growing number of countries have reported sharp increases in the use and harm of opioid analgesics. High rates of new opioid initiation are observed in postoperative patients. In response, various tertiary care institutions have developed opioid exit plans (OEPs) to curb potential opioid-related harm.

METHODS

PubMed and Embase were systematically searched to identify, summarize, and compare the interventional elements of OEPs for postoperative patient populations published from January 1, 2000, to June 4, 2024. Two researchers independently screened the articles for eligibility following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, extracted the data, and assessed the study quality and risk of bias. Data synthesis was performed for study characteristics, intervention details, efficacy, and development.

RESULTS

A total of 2,585 articles were screened, eight of which met the eligibility criteria. All studies were conducted in North America and focused on orthopedic surgery patients following total hip or knee arthroplasty (n = 5) or neurosurgery (n = 3). Most studies (n = 7) included a pre-post (n = 4) or randomized clinical design (n = 3). Three studies were of good quality, and none had a low risk of bias. The interventions varied and ranged from educational sessions (n = 1) to individualized tapering protocols (n = 4) or a combination of the two (n = 2). Key elements were instructions on how to anticipate patients' postoperative need for opioid analgesics and tapering strategies based on 24-h predischarge opioid consumption. Six studies included efficacy as an endpoint in their analysis, of which four assessed statistical significance, with all four identifying that the OEPs were successful in reducing postoperative opioid use.

CONCLUSION

Despite differences in design and implementation, the identified OEPs suggest that they are efficacious in reducing outpatient opioid consumption. They provide a robust estimate of postoperative analgesic requirements and a rationale for tapering duration and rate. However, more rigorous studies are needed to evaluate their real-world effectiveness.

Correlates of Mild Behavioral Impairment in Older Adults: Protocol for a Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Understanding mild behavioral impairment, a relatively recent notion in neuropsychological studies, provides significant insights into early behavioral indicators of cognitive decline and predicts the onset of dementia in older adults. Although the importance of understanding mild behavioral impairment is acknowledged, comprehensive reviews of its correlates with older adults are limited.

OBJECTIVE

This scoping review aims to identify the impact of mild behavioral impairment on health outcomes in older adults and the factors associated with mild behavioral impairment.

METHODS

The review will adhere to the Joanna Briggs Institute's methodological principles for scoping reviews. We will include studies focusing mainly on mild behavioral impairment in older adults, with the literature on this topic being limited to the period from 2003 to the present. Other clinical diagnoses, such as cognitive impairment, Parkinson disease, and multiple sclerosis, will not be included. We will use databases including PubMed (MEDLINE), CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane, and Scopus for relevant articles published in English. Both gray literature and peer-reviewed articles will be considered during screening. Three independent reviewers will extract data using a predefined data extraction tool. Extracted data will be presented using tables, figures, and a narrative summary aligned with review questions, accompanied by an analysis of study characteristics and categorization of mild behavioral impairment correlates.

RESULTS

The results will be presented as a descriptive summary, structured according to the associated factors related to mild behavioral impairment, and the health outcomes. Additionally, the data on study characteristics will be presented in tabular format. An exploratory search was conducted in July 2023 to establish a comprehensive search strategy, and iterative refinements to the scoping review protocol and formalization of methods were completed. A follow-up search is planned for May 2024, with the aim of submitting the findings for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this would be the first study to map the literature on the health-related factors and outcomes of mild behavioral impairment. The findings will support the development of interventions to prevent the occurrence of mild behavioral impairment and mitigate the negative outcomes of mild behavioral impairment.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/60009.

Instruments for evaluating the parental emotional status and ecological support systems among parents who considered cochlear implantation for their children with hearing loss: A scoping review

OBJECTIVES

Parents of children diagnosed with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss may experience a range of emotions owing to a lack of knowledge and experience in dealing with such children. However, most audiology clinics only attend to children with deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) and not their parents. Thus, parents' emotional and support needs are frequently excluded from the intervention sessions, making their own needs invisible. This study aimed to identify academic and clinical instruments used for assessing parental emotional status (PES) and ecological support systems (ESS) in early intervention and determine the factors affecting PES and ESS among parents of DHH children undergoing cochlear implantation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This scoping review followed the rigorous methodological framework; searched Medline (via OVID and EMBSCO), Scopus, and Web of Science; and selected studies relevant to validated instruments used to evaluate the PES and ESS among parents of DHH children below 6 years old. Before selecting and reviewing relevant articles, two reviewers independently assessed article titles and abstracts from the data sources. Two reviewers verified half of the first reviewer's extracted data.

RESULTS

Overall, 3060 articles were retrieved from the database search, and 139 were selected for full-text review following title and abstract reviews. Ultimately, this study included 22 articles. Among them, 23 and 12 validated instruments, most of which are generic measures, were used for assessing PES and ESS, respectively. Three condition-specific instruments were identified and designed to be administered following cochlear implantation surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that healthcare professionals who interact with parents of DHH children lack the necessary instruments, particularly for parents of children undergoing cochlear implantation surgery. Therefore, it is necessary to develop condition-specific instruments for parents who consider cochlear implantation for their children.

Factors associated with health CEO turnover - a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Chief Executive Officer's (CEO) are integral leaders of health care organisation. Over the last two decades in United States (US) hospitals, it has been noted that CEO turnover rates are increasing, and it was reported that the CEO turnover rates have augmented from 14% in 2008 to 18% in 2017 in the private sector. In Australia, it was discovered that during two years, 41 executives had 18 distinct positions. It has been highlighted that the increasing CEO turnover is a major issue for Australian and international health care organisations. Some of the negative consequences of CEO turnover include organisational instability, high financial costs, loss of human capital and adverse effects on staff morale and patient care.

OBJECTIVE

Our scoping review aimed to map and summarise the evidence associated with CEO turnovers in both health and non-health setting, and answer the following questions: 1. What are the reasons for CEO departure?, 2. What are the strategies to minimise CEO turnover?

RESULTS

A protocol explaining the objectives, inclusion criteria and methods for this scoping review were specified in advance and published. This scoping review included 17 studies (13 health and 4 non-health setting) published over a 31-year period that investigated and described the increasing CEO turnover rates. All 17 studies identified causes of CEO turnover along with certain studies identifying facilitators of CEO retention. We classified CEO's departure reasons into three major themes: organizational, performance, and personal. Organisational factors include CEO departures due to issues within the organisation, performance factors include issues with CEO's work and personal factors captures personal reasons for CEO's leaving their job.

CONCLUSION

CEOs are under immense pressure to deliver good results and drive growth while satisfying the interests of internal and external stakeholders. There are various reasons for CEO's departure however the most common factor identified is organisational.

Definition and assessment of psychological frailty in older adults: A scoping review

OBJECTIVES

The confusion surrounding psychological frailty and its components prompts the need for a standardized conceptual definition. To address this, we aimed to (1) identify the psychological variables included in multicomponent frailty assessment instruments used with older adults and examine their operationalization; and (2) formulate a thorough conceptualization of psychological frailty based on the variables identified.

METHODS

This study followed the most recent recommendations for conducting scoping reviews and is reported in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. We systematically searched the CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, with additional searches in Google Scholar and reference lists.

RESULTS

Sixteen instruments were identified. The results suggested that: (1) In multicomponent frailty assessment instruments, psychological variables are poorly represented; (2) A wide variety of psychological variables are included in the instruments, the most frequent being cognitive functioning and affective functioning (e.g., depressive symptoms, emotional loneliness, anxiety symptoms, poor coping, and suicidal ideation); and (3) The way in which variables are referred to and operationalized varies across instruments.

CONCLUSIONS

Including both cognitive and affective variables in psychological frailty assessments may lead to inaccuracies. We suggest distinguishing between two separate dimensions within psychological frailty: cognitive frailty and affective frailty. A conceptual definition for each dimension is provided. This proposal aims to advance the debate regarding the conceptualization and assessment of psychological frailty, with further research and discussion needed to ensure its practical applicability.

Applicability of the Neuman Systems Model to the Gerontology Nursing practice: a scoping review

OBJECTIVE

to map scientific productions on the application of the Neuman Systems Model to the Nursing practice focused on health care for aged people.

METHOD

a scoping review based on the methodology proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute. Seven electronic databases were consulted. Regarding the eligibility criteria, the following were considered: Population - Aged people; Concept - Application of the Neuman Systems Model in the Nursing practice; and Research Context - Health services.

RESULTS

a total of 14 studies made up the sample. The data were analyzed and summarized into two categories: implementation of the Neuman Systems Model in hospital, institutional and outpatient settings; and use of the Neuman Systems Model in community and home environments.

CONCLUSION

the application of Neuman Systems approach to the Gerontology Nursing practice, in different care scenarios, proved to be promising, considering aged people as comprehensive individuals with multiple dimensions. This perspective has shown adaptability and effectiveness in meeting the diverse needs of older adults, resulting in an improvement in their quality of life in old age.

Recognising dying in motor neurone disease: A scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Timely identification of dying in motor neurone disease enables optimal care, yet we know that healthcare professionals can fail to recognise when death is approaching. Clinical factors help predict the end of life in other terminal conditions. Examining these principles in motor neurone disease would help guide more accurate recognition of this critical phase.

AIM

To examine and map out what is known about dying in patients with motor neurone disease, and the recognition of dying by healthcare professionals.

DESIGN

A scoping review was conducted following the Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework.

DATA SOURCES

Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, PsycINFO and CINAHL) and grey literature were searched on the 10th May 2023. Reference lists and citations were also reviewed.

RESULTS

From 1512 articles, 13 studies were included. Dyspnoea, anxiety and pain were the most common symptoms associated with the dying phase. Worsening respiratory function, the development of specific new symptoms and deteriorating symptom control suggested approaching death. No studies reported changes in vital signs or biomarkers associated with dying. Barriers to the recognition of dying by healthcare professionals included a rapid and unpredictable terminal decline.

CONCLUSIONS

Dying in motor neurone disease is associated with patterns of symptoms and signs, however evidence is limited compared with other terminal conditions and requires further exploration. The characteristic sudden and unpredictable terminal decline is a key barrier to recognition of dying by healthcare professionals. Optimising advance care planning is one approach to navigate these complex, unpredictable clinical situations.

Application of virtual reality technology in postoperative rehabilitation following total knee arthroplasty: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

With the advent of an ageing era, the number of elderly patients undergoing knee joint replacement is increasing. Postoperative long-term standardized functional exercise is a focal point and difficulty in the recovery of joint function for patients after knee replacement. Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly considered a potentially effective option that can provide patients with a relaxed and enjoyable exercise method.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of the scoping review to systematically evaluates the impact of virtual reality (VR) technology the movement and functional recovery, psychological state, pain levels, and quality of life of patients after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). It summarises and synthesises VR's effects and feasibility in TKA rehabilitation training, offering a scientific basis and reference for the professional advancement of orthopaedic practice nurses and future research in this domain.

METHODS

We employed the Joanna Briggs Institute's scoping review guidelines as our methodological framework. The literature search spanned from January 2018 to December 31, 2023, encompassing databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI, Wanfang, CQVIP, and the China Biomedical Literature Database.

RESULTS

An initial search yielded 2708 articles, with 17 studies meeting the inclusion criteria after stringent screening. The findings indicate that VR equipment primarily comprises VR goggles, handheld controllers, and sensor technology. Interventions typically occurred 3 to 5 times weekly, lasting 20-30 min per session. The principal assessment metrics included pain levels, psychological state, joint function, and quality of life.

CONCLUSION

VR technology proves feasible in the rehabilitation of TKA patients, effectively alleviating pain, enhancing psychological states, and improving joint function and quality of life. However, discrepancies exist regarding VR's effect on bolstering lower limb muscle strength. Future research should focus on evidence-based medical practices, optimising VR intervention strategies, developing customised plans tailored to individual patient differences, and potentially extending intervention durations to amplify VR technology's application effects in TKA patient rehabilitation.

Nursing Regulation Literature in Canada: Protocol for a Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Significant reforms are occurring in health practitioner regulation across Canada. Within the nursing profession, growing workforce challenges and health system demands have accelerated the pace of changes to nursing regulation policies and practices. There is significant political investment to modernize and harmonize nursing regulation across Canada, and evidence is needed to guide regulatory decision-making. To better understand the current state of scholarship and the gaps that exist, a comprehensive understanding of the available literature informing nursing regulation in Canada is first warranted.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this scoping review is to examine the nature, extent, and range of literature focused on nursing regulation in Canada.

METHODS

The review will be conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines for scoping reviews. We will search electronic databases, including Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection. We will also search for grey literature using the websites of Canadian nursing regulatory bodies, nursing organizations, and other leading Canadian regulatory organizations. No limitations will be placed on the year of publication. The review will include papers that explore nursing regulation in Canada, including topics such as education program accreditation or approval, licensure, standards of practice and code of conduct/ethics development and enforcement, continuing competence, discipline and conduct, regulatory models, governance, and reform. We will extract data using a predeveloped tool. Data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics and conventional content analysis.

RESULTS

A preliminary search in Ovid MEDLINE was undertaken on December 7, 2023, and a full search was conducted in 5 academic databases on March 15, 2024. Findings will be presented using evidence tables and a narrative summary. Reporting will follow the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. This scoping review is expected to be completed in early 2025.

CONCLUSIONS

The results will be disseminated through conference presentations and a publication in a peer-reviewed journal. The findings will provide a comprehensive overview of the state of nursing regulation literature across Canada and inform the development of a focused research agenda.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Open Science Framework osf.io/3qk8t; https://osf.io/bm7jv.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/56163.

Coercive Control in 2SLGBTQQIA+ Relationships: A Scoping Review

Existing measures and theories of intimate partner coercive control largely evaluate men's coercion of women. The extent of knowledge pertaining to intimate relationships among other genders and sexual identities is unclear. Guided by a theoretical framework of intersectionality, we examined and synthesized original studies on coercive control by (perpetration) or against (victimization) Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, questioning, intersex, and asexual individuals within intimate partner relationships. We searched eight academic databases for records from 2014 through 2022 and hand-searched review articles' reference lists, supplemented with gray literature and website searches. Using duplicate screening, we identified 1,774 unique documents; 526 met preliminary eligibility criteria and 277 were retained for data extraction in duplicate. Coercive control was more common among minority individuals and was related to mental health challenges. Few studies reported on gender- or sexual-identity specific forms of coercive control, and an intersectional focus was uncommon. This review revealed a lack of agreed definition of coercive control or accepted standard of measurement, and a gap in research with individuals who identify as gender diverse, gender fluid or intersex, or those identifying their sexuality as asexual, pansexual, or sexually diverse.

Landing error scoring system: A scoping review about variants, reference values and differences according to sex and sport

OBJECTIVE

The Landing Error Scoring System (LESS) is a movement analysis tool proposed to identify the risk of anterior cruciate ligament injuries, very useful for injury prevention. The aim of this study is to review the variants of the LESS, their normative scores and the differences according to sex and sport practiced.

METHODS

PubMed, Scopus and ScienceDirect databases were searched from inception to October 19, 2023. Studies were eligible if the objective was finding normative or reference scores for the LESS, analyze the differences between sexes or sports, or used some variant of the test. Results were limited to available full-text articles published in English in peer-reviewed journals.

RESULTS

Of the 360 articles identified, 20 were included for a full analysis (18,093 participants, age = 8-30 years, males = 70.6%). The military population was the most frequently analyzed (7 studies, n = 16,603). Results showed six variants of the LESS and average values ranged from 2.56 to 7.1. Males and females showed different pattern landing with errors in different planes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the need for more field studies on LESS reference scores, particularly for females and basketball or hockey players. Further research is required before conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Efficacy of educational interventions on improving medical emergency readiness of rural healthcare providers: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Medical emergencies are the leading cause of high mortality and morbidity rates in rural areas of higher and lower-income countries than in urban areas. Medical emergency readiness is healthcare providers' knowledge, skills, and confidence to meet patients' emergency needs. Rural healthcare professionals' medical emergency readiness is imperative to prevent or reduce casualties due to medical emergencies. Evidence shows that rural healthcare providers' emergency readiness needs enhancement. Education and training are the effective ways to improve them. However, there has yet to be a scoping review to understand the efficacy of educational intervention regarding rural healthcare providers' medical emergency readiness.

OBJECTIVES

This scoping review aimed to identify and understand the effectiveness of educational interventions in improving rural healthcare providers' medical emergency readiness globally.

METHODS

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews were used to select the papers for this scoping review. This scoping review was conducted using MEDLINE, CINHAL, SCOPUS, PUBMED and OVID databases. The Population, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome [PICO] strategies were used to select the papers from the database. The selected papers were limited to English, peer-reviewed journals and published from 2013 to 2023. A total of 536 studies were retrieved, and ten studies that met the selection criteria were included in the review. Three reviewers appraised the selected papers individually using the Joanna Briggs Institute [JBI] critical appraisal tool. A descriptive method was used to analyse the data.

RESULTS

From the identified 536 papers, the ten papers which met the PICO strategies were selected for the scoping review. Results show that rural healthcare providers' emergency readiness remains the same globally. All interventions were effective in enhancing rural health care providers' medical emergency readiness, though the interventions were implemented at various durations of time and in different foci of medical emergencies. Results showed that the low-fidelity simulated manikins were the most cost-effective intervention to train rural healthcare professionals globally.

CONCLUSION

The review concluded that rural healthcare providers' medical emergency readiness improved after the interventions. However, the limitations associated with the studies caution readers to read the results sensibly. Moreover, future research should focus on understanding the interventions' behavioural outcomes, especially among rural healthcare providers in low to middle-income countries.

Interventions to improve equity in emergency departments for Indigenous people: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Disparities in health outcomes, including increased chronic disease prevalence and decreased life expectancy for Indigenous people, have been shown across settings affected by white settler colonialism including Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. Emergency departments (EDs) represent a unique setting in which urgent patient need and provider strain interact to amplify inequities within society. The aim of this scoping review was to map the ED-based interventions aimed at improving equity in care for Indigenous patients in EDs.

METHODS

This scoping review was conducted using the procedures outlined by Arksey and O'Malley and guidance on conducting scoping reviews from the Joanna Briggs Institute. A systematic search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, SCOPUS, and EMBASE was conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 3636 articles were screened by title and abstract, of which 32 were screened in full-text review and nine articles describing seven interventions were included in this review. Three intervention approaches were identified: the introduction of novel clinical roles, implementation of chronic disease screening programs in EDs, and systems/organizational-level interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Relatively few interventions for improving equity in care were identified. We found that a minority of interventions are aimed at creating organizational-level change and suggest that future interventions could benefit from targeting system-level changes as opposed to or in addition to incorporating new roles in EDs.

Scoping Review on Transitions in the Context of Pediatric Palliative Care

Background: Children with complex and chronic conditions receiving palliative care will likely experience many transitions during their life and their treatments. Transition periods for children with life-limiting conditions and their families can be bewildering and highly anxiety-inducing. However, clinical observations seem to point to a more heterogenous care offer, including a lack or discontinuity of services, at the expense of their quality of life. Objective: This paper aims to establish a portrait of the existing literature and identify research gaps on the multiple transitions experienced by this population. Design: A scoping review is provided, following a PRISMA protocol. MEDLINE, PubMed and CINAHL were consulted. The search strategy is based on three key concepts: (1) palliative care/complex condition, (2) child/adolescent, and (3) transition. Articles were screened with the help of Covidence. Results: A total of 72 articles are included for analysis. The aimed population is either identified by age group or by medical status. Respondents are most often parents rather than the children themselves. Transitions include: reaching adulthood, changes in care environment, changes in medical status, and school integration. Conclusion: The discussion notices a definitional murkiness about transitions and highlights the fact that the multifaceted and complex nature of transition over time is largely ignored. New research should involve a diversity of participants and include children's voices. Recommendations include clearer concept definitions, health care policies that adopt an ecosystemic approach, and professional training in the systemic family approach in palliative care.

Which patients need anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction after initial treatment with rehabilitation? A scoping review

PURPOSE

Some patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury initially treated with rehabilitation need ACL reconstruction (ACLR); yet, it is unclear what characterizes these patients. This review aimed to describe predictors for ACLR in patients initially treated with rehabilitation.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed in the Cochrane, Embase, Medline, SportsDiscus and Web of Science databases from inception to 21 February 2023. Articles describing characteristics in adult patients with ACL injury undergoing ACLR after a minimum of 5 weeks rehabilitation were included. It was a priori chosen that characteristics described in at least three articles were considered more certain and could be defined as a predictor for ACLR, and those described in less than three articles were considered less certain and therefore defined as possible predictors. Articles were screened by two independent reviewers. The study was originally intended as a systematic review with meta-analysis, but in case of limited data, we would convert it to a scoping review, as was the case for this review.

RESULTS

There were 22,836 studies identified, and 181 full texts were screened, of which 10 papers were finally included. Only lower age and higher preinjury activity level were identified as predictors for ACLR. Another 12 possible predictors were identified in single studies. Through an iterative process, potential predictors were categorized into four groups: patient demographics, knee function, patient-reported outcome measures and anatomical structures.

CONCLUSION

Lower age and higher preinjury activity level were the only predictors for ACLR after initial treatment with rehabilitation. While younger and highly active patients show a higher need for ACLR, more studies focussing on predictors and reasons for delayed ACLR are warranted.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

Interviewing Asylum-Seeking Children: A Scoping Review of Research to Inform Best Practices

Immigration interviews with asylum-seeking youth have been largely understudied. In domestic legal settings, children interviewed about abuse and maltreatment provide more detailed, relevant responses when asked open-ended questions and when interviewed in a neutral environment, among other supportive practices. In asylum settings, guidance for interviews with youth derives from the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. It is not clear to what extent best practices are employed during asylum interviews with youth. This scoping review was performed to (a) provide an overview of empirical literature on interviews with children in immigration settings, including border screenings, interviews with representatives, and asylum hearings, (b) explore whether best practices derived from forensic psychology and children's rights are observed in asylum interviews, (c) identify unique interview needs of asylum-seeking youth, and (d) derive implications for research and practice. A scoping review of three databases conducted in October 2023 yielded titles, of which 29 articles met inclusion criteria. These comprised quantitative and qualitative studies in English from 2003 to 2023. Three articles identified were quantitative, and 26 were qualitative. While several articles touched on interview practices and youth's experiences of interviews, only a few examined how asylum-seeking youth responded to different interview factors such as question type and interview setting. Key findings highlight inconsistent application of best practice principles, and several areas where best practices to support asylum-seeking children require clarification through further research.

An Umbrella Review of Systematic Reviews on Trauma Informed Approaches

Trauma and adversity significantly impact on morbidity and mortality. Hence, trauma-informed care is proliferating practice and research contexts. However, the evidence base for organisational wide trauma-informed care is far from conclusive, with the extant literature providing low quality and conflicting evidence. The purpose of this umbrella review of systematic reviews, is to summarise the existing evidence on trauma-informed care implemented at the organisational level. The preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analyses (PRISMA) was used to conduct an umbrella review. Six databases were searched; Academic Search Complete, APA Psych Articles, Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, and the Web of Science, supplemented with bibliography searches. Articles were included if they were peer reviewed in the English language from inception to 2024 and reported on trauma-informed care with an implementation context. The Joanne Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Systematic Reviews and Research Syntheses was used to assess the quality of the included reviews. Findings are mapped to the 10 trauma-informed care implementation domains described by the Substance Use and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) and reported using a narrative synthesis. The search strategy yielded 5,297 articles, of which (N = 14) systematic reviews are included. The reviews had a combined study count of (N = 311), with a total sample size of (N = 157,724). Most reviews used a narrative synthesis to report results, with no meta-analyses. Critical appraisal categorised the reviews as 28% high quality, 22% moderate quality, and 50% as low quality. Most reviews (50%), were conducted on youth populations, with school settings being the most studied context. There was a great deal of heterogeneity across the reviews, with 62 different models of trauma informed approaches discussed. The composition of the individual studies included in each systematic review were generally of low quality with mixed findings of effectiveness and implementation. Findings are discussed for moving forward with trauma-informed care implementation. Trauma-informed care is proposed as a system wide intervention to improve outcomes for service users, however the research base is still under scrutiny. Emerging research identifies the benefit of using the 10 trauma-informed implementation domains to shift cultural practices. Further research needs to be undertaken in various contexts with different populations.

The quality of Web-based orthodontic information: A scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Patients seeking health information on the Internet is commonplace. This scoping review aimed to collate and synthesize the evidence regarding the quality of Web-based orthodontic information.

METHODS

A systematic search and independent screening process was conducted by 2 independent reviewers across 4 databases. The review was conducted in alignment with the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines.

RESULTS

Of 661 records identified, 30 publications satisfied the inclusion criteria. Reviewed studies included those related to the information contained within Web sites regarding dental and orthodontist practices, orthodontic interventions, appliances and auxiliaries, orthodontic conditions commonly requiring orthodontic therapy, issues related to patient experience, and advice during orthodontic treatment. A total of 5 quality of information (QOI) instruments and 3 readability tools were employed, with the University of Oxford, United Kingdom (DISCERN) instrument and the Flesch Reading Ease Score tool being the most frequently used. Most studies determined that the QOI contained within evaluated Web sites was poor and provided suboptimal information related to treatment risks and Web site reliability. Most studies indicated that the information was more difficult to read than recommended by guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

The QOI of orthodontic information available on Web sites was low to moderate, with the readability of content at a level that was considered challenging for many readers to understand. A recommendation for greater involvement of the dental and orthodontic specialty in Web site development was commonplace. Research is required for the development of validated tools that can determine the accuracy of information in addition to Web site reliability.