Data Synthesis
Data Synthesis
&
Meta-Analysis
• Title: Data Synthesis and Meta-Analysis in
Nursing Research
Subtitle: Understanding Methods,
Importance, and Applications
Presented by: [Your Name]
Date: [Date]
Introduction
• Data Synthesis: Combining data from multiple
studies for meaningful conclusions.
• Meta-Analysis: Statistical technique to
integrate findings from various studies.
• Importance in Nursing Research: Enhances
evidence-based practice (EBP).
• (Visual: Overview diagram of data synthesis
process)
• Types of Data Synthesis
• Narrative Synthesis – Descriptive method,
summarizing findings qualitatively.
• Quantitative Synthesis (Meta-Analysis) – Uses
statistical methods to combine numerical data.
• Qualitative Synthesis (Meta-Synthesis) –
Focuses on integrating qualitative research
findings.
• Steps in Conducting a Meta-Analysis
• Define the Research Question (PICO framework: Population,
Intervention, Comparison, Outcome).
• Search and Select Studies (Databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane,
etc.).
• Data Extraction (Identify study characteristics, results, and key
findings).
• Assess Study Quality (Using tools like PRISMA, Cochrane Risk of Bias
tool).
• Statistical Analysis (Effect sizes, heterogeneity assessment, funnel
plots).
• Interpretation and Reporting (Draw conclusions, discuss limitations).
• Statistical Methods in Meta-Analysis
• Effect Size Calculation: Standardized mean
difference (SMD), Odds Ratio (OR), Risk Ratio
(RR).
• Heterogeneity Assessment:
– I² Statistic (Measures variability between studies).
– Chi-Square Test (Tests if variations are due to chance).
• Forest Plot (Visual representation of individual
and overall study results).
• Tools & Software for Meta-Analysis
• RevMan (Cochrane Collaboration) – Commonly
used in nursing research.
• Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) –
Advanced statistical modeling.
• STATA, R (meta, metafor packages) – For
custom analyses.
• PRISMA Guidelines – Framework for systematic
reviews and meta-analyses.
• Applications in Nursing Research
• Clinical Decision-Making: Synthesizing data for
best practices.
• Policy Development: Informing healthcare
policies with aggregated data.
• Guideline Formation: Used in WHO, CDC, and
other health organizations.
• Identifying Research Gaps: Finding areas
needing further investigation.
• Challenges & Limitations
• Publication Bias: Studies with positive results
are more likely to be published.
• Heterogeneity: Variability in study designs,
populations, and methodologies.
• Data Quality Issues: Poorly designed studies
may affect results.
• Complex Statistical Analysis: Requires expertise
in biostatistics.
• Example of a Meta-Analysis in Nursing
• Example: "The Effectiveness of Hand Hygiene
Interventions in Reducing Hospital-Acquired
Infections – A Meta-Analysis."
• Summarize key findings, impact, and practical
implications.
• Conclusion
• Meta-analysis and data synthesis are crucial
for evidence-based nursing practice.
• Helps in combining multiple studies for
stronger conclusions.
• Despite challenges, it is a powerful tool for
improving patient care.