Timeframe:12+ months, [same amount of time as a systematic review or longer] *Varies beyond the type of review. Depends on many factors such as but not limited to: resources available, the quantity and quality of the literature, and the expertise or experience of reviewers" [Grant et al. 2009]
Question:Answers broader and topic focused questions beyond those relatingto the effectiveness of treatments or interventions. A priori review protocol is recommended.
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Sources and searches:Comprehensivesearch-may be limited by time/scope restraints, still aims to be thorough and repeatable of all literature.May involve multiple structured searches rather than a single structured search. This will produce more results than a systematic review. Must include a modified PRISMAflow diagram.
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Selection:Based on inclusion/exclusion criteria, due to the iterative nature of a scoping review some changes may be necessary. May require more time spent screening articles due to the larger volume of results from broader questions.
Appraisal:Critical appraisal [optional], Risk of Bias assessment [optional]is not applicable for scoping reviews.
Synthesis: [Tabular with some narrative] The extraction of data for a scoping reviewmay include acharting table or form but a formal synthesis of findings from individual studies and the generation of a 'summary of findings' [SOF] table is not required. Results may include a logicaldiagram or table or any descriptive form that aligns with the scope and objectives of the review. May incorporate a numerical summary and qualitative thematic analysis.
Consultation: [optional]
[Sources: MDJ Peters et al. [2015], Levac et al. [2010]]