Table 2 Quality review criteria and summary of findings

Quantitative studies

Design and sample

       Random or probability sample

1

17

       Sample adequate size and representative

17

1

       Inclusion criteria clearly defined

4

12

2

       Measurement

       Valid and reliable measures

4

12

2

       Confounding factors identified and managed

4

14

Statistical analysis

       Appropriate statistics

18

Qualitative studies

Study design

       Congruity between philosophical perspective & methodology

6

4

       Congruity between research methodology and research question

6

4

       Congruity between the research methodology & data collection methods

7

2

1

       Participants and their voices are adequately represented

5

5

       Influence of the researcher is addressed

5

5

       Statement locating the researcher culturally or theoretically

4

6

Analysis

       Congruity between the research methodology & interpretation of results

5

2

2

       Congruity between research methodology & presentation/ analysis

6

1

3

Presentation of findings

       Accords with current ethical criteria , evidence of ethical approval

7

3

       Conclusions drawn flow from the data

6

2

2

Mixed Methods

Study design

       Random or probability sample

2

       Sample adequate size and representative

1

1

       Confounding factors identified and managed

2

       Mixed methods design is relevant to address the research question

2

Measurement

       Valid and reliable measures

2

Analysis

       Influence of the researcher is addressed

2

       Conclusions drawn flow from the data

1

1

       Appropriate consideration given to the limitations of the method

1

1