Protocol on a systematic review of qualitative studies on asthma treatment challenges experienced in Sub-Saharan Africa

Scoping out the scope of scoping reviews in neonatal and pediatric pain management: A scoping review methodological framework

PURPOSE

This methodological framework was purposed to discuss the considerations for conducting scoping review for neonatal and pediatric pain management (NPPM) from the perspectives of Arksey and O' Malley and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) framework. Till now, there is no scoping review or standard methods are available for identifying, prioritizing, or reporting research gaps in the area of NPPM.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Scoping reviews were utilized to map the literature comprehensively across a range of study designs in a particular area. This methodological framework describes the methods used to identify, prioritize, and display research gaps in the area of NPPM. Different methods to determine research gaps have been described in this framework. This scoping review methodological framework also discussed methods for conducting scoping review in two levels with methodological considerations given by Arksey and O'Malley, and JBI Institute. Search terms and search terminologies are described to conduct scoping review effectively for NPPM. Through, this standard scoping review methodological considerations, the general understanding and current advances in NPPM can be widened.

CONCLUSION

This methodological framework describes the methods for conducting scoping review effectively in the area of NPPM.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Not applicable.

Protocol for a scoping review to evaluate the extent of utilisation of healthcare services by asthma patients in sub-Saharan African countries

INTRODUCTION

Health systems in sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries are fragile and centralised. Consequently, majority of people have restricted access to healthcare services. Given the rise in the prevalence and burden of asthma in SSA, it is imperative to scrutinise the utilisation of healthcare services by people with asthma. We aim to understand, through this review, the extent of utilisation of healthcare services by asthma patients in SSA countries.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Arksey and O'Malley's scoping review methodology framework will be used to guide the conduct of this scoping review. We will conduct a search of the literature on the electronic databases: Medline, (using PubMed interface), EMBASE, EBSCOHOST, Web of Science and Google Scholar, grey literature sources and the reference lists of key studies to identify studies appropriate for inclusion. Two reviewers will independently screen all abstracts and full-text studies for inclusion. Registration of the proposed scoping review on the PROSPERO has indicated that no similar work has been or is being done elsewhere. We will review studies published on the subject from January 2009 to May 2020 in SSA.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The proposed scoping review will contribute towards the knowledge base on utilisation of healthcare services particularly for people with asthma. This will provide a better understanding of the extent of utilisation of healthcare services by asthma patients and ultimately contribute to improvement of quality of care for people suffering from asthma. The results from the review will enlighten and guide healthcare practitioners and researchers on developing appropriate and feasible interventions to increase the utilisation of healthcare services by asthma patients in resource-constrained settings in SSA countries. Results of this scoping review will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication, conference presentations and a 1-day stakeholder meeting.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020154127.